Michael Pickwoad, who served as Doctor Who production designer from series 7 through to 10, has passed away at the age of 73. His work on the show, which covered an impressive 71 episodes, will last long in the memory.
Michael Pickwoad’s biggest contribution to the world of Who was surely the complete overhaul of the TARDIS design, which he debuted in Matt Smith’s festive outing, A Christmas Carol. This sleek take on the iconic time machine saw Smith through to the end of his tenure, and housed Peter Capaldi for the entirety of his run as the Time Lord.
As well as working on Doctor Who, Pickwoad also worked on Class, Withnail & I, Rules Of Engagement, Kavanagh QC, Murder Most Horrid and Coupling.
Tom Spilsbury, who edited Doctor Who Magazine throughout Pickwoad’s time with Team TARDIS, has released this statement:
“We often hear about ‘unsung heroes’, and while it would be misleading to say Michael Pickwoad’s genius was completely unsung, his brilliant contributions were a massive part of Doctor Who’s success over the past eight years. His sets were simply extraordinary. A wonderful man.”
Indeed, Doctor Who wouldn’t have been the same over the last few years without Pickwoad’s brilliant design work. He was clearly a man with a great deal of talent, and it was a pleasure to see his work on our screens.
Our thoughts go to Pickwoad’s family at this difficult time.