Richard Franklin, Doctor Who and Emmerdale star, “passed away peacefully” on the morning of Christmas Day at age of 87 after fighting a long-term illness, according to a statement from his family.
The actor appeared in Crossroads and played businessman Denis Rigg in ITV’s Emmerdale but is best known for portraying Captain Mike Yates of UNIT in Doctor Who from 1971 until 1974.
He reprised the role in later decades for one-off episodes, including an appearance in the show’s 20th anniversary special The Five Doctors in 1983, and attended many fan conventions to talk about Captain Yates.
He also reprised the character on audio: in the Hornet’s Nest series alongside Tom Baker for the BBC, and for Big Finish – most recently in UNIT: Assembled.
A spokesperson for Franklin told the PA news agency: “We are deeply saddened by his loss, we will fondly remember him for his generosity, creative spirit, and fantastic storytelling. He is also well remembered outside the family for his long-running career in TV and theatre where he delighted audiences of all ages. This gave him great joy and we know his legacy will last.”
the Christmas #DoctorWho took me away from the sad farewell of @PlanetFranklin onto a thrilling adventure & then hurled me back to Earth with a huge ‘Thwomp ‘ & a big smile . Thank you @russelldavies63 and entire team . #NcutiGatwa #millieGibson perfect pic.twitter.com/vRF1D7HJCe
— KatyManning Official welcomes you (@ManningOfficial) December 26, 2023
Sylvester asked me to post how sad he was to hear Richard Franklin had died. And he knows many of you will be too. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/R9WHGdyahi
— Sylvester McCoy (@4SylvesterMcCoy) December 26, 2023
One thing I loved about managing Richard’s social media was reading him your messages. He was always surprised and humbled by the love shown to him and it was very much reciprocated. That love is so evident right now and I’m sure will be of great comfort to his family. – LR pic.twitter.com/P3pum6X7zq
— Richard Franklin (@PlanetFranklin) December 25, 2023
Born in Marylebone in 1936, Franklin is survived by survived by several family members, including wife Sherri Saum and three sons.