6.7: A Good Man Goes To War isn't the first time we have seen Dorium
Maldavar. Did you know at the time of filming 5.12: The Pandorica Opens,
that your character would return in Series 6?
No, complete surprise. I was very happy with my scene opposite the
delicious Alex Kingston. Yes I hoped there would be more - thanks to
Steven Moffat's imagination Dorium Lives...!
Without giving too much away, tell us a
bit about Dorium. What kind of a man is he and can we expect to see more
of him in future Doctor Who episodes?
As episode 7 has revealed, there is a decent moral fibre hidden deep
inside Dorium. He lives and thrives on the murky side of society where
he survives on his wits. His temperament is somewhat murcurial which
adds a little danger - others can be nervous around him, but Dorium is
multi layered. Very few really 'know' Dorium but when push comes to
shove he is loyal, reliable and teflon coated.
How aware of the Doctor Who universe were
you before you got the part? Were you a fan, and if so, what is your
first memory of the show?
I was born in 1961 and was 2 when William Hartnell first appeared. I do
remember him. In particular the change to Patrick Troughton. I refer to
myself as a 'follower' of Doctor Who rather than a Fan. I take great
pleasure in having been bullied in the past for supporting Dr Who I can
laugh and gloat that I am now part of the huge BBC flagship phenomenon
that IS Doctor Who.
How have you found the fan reactions to
your character, and how does the impending prospect of convention
appearances appeal to you?
The Fan reaction is very exciting and humbling at the same time. What
really surprised is the immediate response to Dorium. Having only one
scene with six lines initially, it is amazing how he caught everyone's
imagination. Thankfully Steven Moffat loves Dorium too.
The conventions have been frightening and thrilling. Those who know me
will tell you I'm a bit of a gas bag, there is nothing more I enjoy than
mixing with people having a good chin wag. I have broad interests and am
happy to pontificate on anything for hours.....! The only practical
downside of the conventions is fatigue. The hands can start to ache with
all the handshaking but I am delighted to help fans enjoy their day.
Finally, if you could have one round trip
in the TARDIS, anywhere in time and space, where would you go and why?
Rather than a Place or Time I would go on a mission. I would collect all
the Deities from ALL Faiths, Galaxies and the known Universe, sit them
down and say '...We Need To Talk.....!!!!'
** Simon
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