Chris talks Doctor Who, has “no ill feelings”
Christopher Eccleston has affirmed that he “has no ill feelings” towards Doctor Who even though he doesn’t watch it.
The actor, who helmed the show as the Ninth Doctor during its 2005 revival series, has previously revealed that he left the iconic part because he “didn’t enjoy” the atmosphere on set. In 2013 he declined Steven Moffat’s invitation to return for the 50th anniversary special having cited that he would “never bathe in the same river twice”.
Despite that, he is still proud of playing the Time Lord.
“I hope I’ll be remembered as one of the Doctors,” he told Radio Times. “I did it because I wanted to move the role away from received pronunciation for the first time. We shouldn’t make a correlation between intellect and accent, though that still needs addressing on TV.”
Chris’ new 4 part drama, Safe House, premieres on ITV next Monday, 20th April, at 9pm.
I don’t have any ill feelings towards Christopher Eccleston either, I’m just sad that he has no interest in returning to role. In a way, the fact that I wish he did have more interest in the role is a testament to his portrayal of the 9th Doctor.
Like the other 12, of course he’ll be remembered as The Doctor, not only because he was great but also because his was the Doctor that successfully revived the Series and introduced the show to brand new audiences, including me.
As I say, it’s just a shame that he’s so resistant to donning the leather jacket again, but I can’t hold it against him. It’s his choice. It’s how he feels.
Tom Baker eventually came back from the wilderness, hopefully Chris E will not take quite as long.