Doctor Who's Russell T Davies told Helena Bonham Carter to turn down show role
Doctor Who spoilers follow.
Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies has revealed that he encouraged Helena Bonham Carter to turn down a role in the show.
Helena recently worked with Russell T Davies on the ITV series Nolly, the three-part drama where she played legendary Crossroads actress Noele Gordon.
The two reunited on The Jo Whiley Show on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds, where Davies confirmed that Helena had been offered parts in Doctor Who over the years.
"She’s been offered and madam was too busy. [laughs] ‘Not this time’ came back the answer," Davies said, adding: "There are better parts coming."
Helena then shared more about the offer, explaining that Davies actually encouraged her to reject the role because the part "wasn't quite good enough".
"I mean it wasn’t big enough, it wasn’t good enough for you," Davies clarified. "It was a lovely part and they offered it, but I secretly sent you a note saying 'turn this down. We’ll get you something better.'"
The writer then quipped: "Oh god, I never told the team that. I am completely hung and drawn and quartered now. I said ‘don’t do this!’."
While Helena said she'd "do anything" for Davies, the showrunner teased: "I know what’s coming up in the future. I know there’s a better part coming."
Davies has a huge festive season coming up, as Ncuti Gatwa officially debuts in a solo adventure as The Fifteen Doctor in the Christmas special 'The Church on Ruby Road'.
This holiday episode features the introduction of former Coronation Street star Millie Gibson as new companion Ruby Sunday – whom The Doctor first meets as a foundling left at the aforementioned church.
The cast includes It's a Sin star Michelle Greenidge as Ruby's mum, Carla, and EastEnders' Angela Wynter as her nan, Cherry, plus soap icon Anita Dobson as Mrs Flood.
Doctor Who continues with 'The Church on Ruby Road', airing on Christmas Day (December 25). The show airs on BBC One in the UK and Disney+ elsewhere.
Classic episodes of Doctor Who are now made available via BBC iPlayer in the UK as well.
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