We look back at actor Richard Franklin’s life and legacy, from his career in the popular Doctor Who franchise to his role in Rogue One
Richard Franklin, best known for his work on Doctor Who, has passed away at the age of 87. His death, announced by his friend Liam Rudden on his X account, marked the end of an era in British television history. Famous for playing Captain Mike Yates, Franklin was a popular figure in pop culture and the Doctor Who universe.
The indelible legacy of Doctor Who
Franklin’s run began on Doctor Who in 1971 during the third Doctor era played by Jon Pertwee. His character, Captain Mike Yates of the Unity, became a fan favorite, appearing in key episodes until 1974. 1993) These appearances, along with his contributions to the Who audiobooks, cemented his place in the hearts of fans.
Franklin’s impact on the franchise extended beyond the screen. His novel, Deadly Stone, is based on one of the audio books, and his participation in events and conventions has shown his commitment and passion for the world of Man. His final appearance, a pre-recorded cameo in the 50s Doctor Who: Preachers podcast live special earlier this year, was essentially his farewell to the universe he loved so much.
An unforgettable character in the history of Doctor Who
The character of Captain Mike Yates, brilliantly played by Richard Franklin, is a pillar in Mann’s rich history. Debuting during a time of change and experimentation for the series, Yates was known for his honesty and courage, a character that resonated strongly with fans. His evolution throughout the series reflected a complex and well-developed narrative arc, a testament to the skills of Franklin and the series’ writers.
Comparing Yates to the characters of the series, the difference becomes apparent. Unlike many of the Doctor’s colleagues, Yates was a member of the UNIT military, offering a different perspective on adventures. This contrast enriched the dynamic of the show and demonstrated the British series’ ability to explore different aspects of humanity and heroism. Not only did Franklin bring a character to life, but he helped define an era in the legendary series.
Beyond the doctor
Franklin wasn’t limited to the Good Doctor series. His theater career was extensive, with numerous productions in the UK. On television, she appeared on the British soap opera Emmerdale in the 1980s and had a recurring role on Crossroads in the 1960s. Her screen credits include Doctors, Little Women, Harry and the Gambler.
In film, Franklin entered the Star Wars universe with the role of Rogue One (2016). He has appeared in films such as Julian Doyle’s Chemical Wedding and Twilight of the Gods, The Novelists, Feedback and The First Days of Spring.
Movement and politics
In addition to his acting career, Franklin was an emotional fighter. He founded the political party Silent Majority and represented various parties over the years, participating in various elections in the United Kingdom. A speech at the Liberal Democrats’ conference in 1993, broadcast on Sky TV, shows his commitment to social and political change.
Franklin’s legacy extends beyond his work on the BBC series. He was a versatile actor, a committed activist and a character loved by fans across generations. His departure leaves a void in the entertainment world, but his mark will live on in popular culture forever.
Rest in Peace Richard Franklin.