R.I.P. William Russell (1924-2024)

Doctor Who TV is saddened to report on the passing of William Russell. He was 99 years old.

Russell made his debut in the very first episode of Doctor Who back in 1963 playing Coal Hill science teacher and First Doctor (William Hartnell) companion Ian Chesterton.

He appeared in 77 episodes from 1963 to 1965, establishing a template for the companion role that would evolve but remain essential throughout the series’ history.

Russell made a brief but memorable return to Doctor Who in the 2022 Centenary special “The Power of the Doctor“. This appearance marked his last contribution to the show and also was recognized by the Guinness World Records for longest gap between TV appearances at 57 years and 120 days.

Showrunner Russell T Davies said: “An absolute legend, for Doctor Who and the whole of television. In 1963, William created the template for the Doctor’s companion, and that’s still going strong, 61 years later. He’s adored by fandom, and will never be forgotten.”