DWO caught up with New Series Actor, Simon Fisher-Becker, to discuss his character, Dorium Maldovar, his early Doctor Who memories, Doctor Who fandom and bringing the universe together!
6.7: A Good Man Goes To War isn't the first time we have seen Dorium Maldavar. Did you know at the time of filming 5.12: The Pandorica Opens, that your character would return in Series 6?
No, complete surprise. I was very happy with my scene opposite the delicious Alex Kingston. Yes I hoped there would be more - thanks to Steven Moffat's imagination Dorium Lives...!
Without giving too much away, tell us a bit about Dorium. What kind of a man is he and can we expect to see more of him in future Doctor Who episodes?
As episode 7 has revealed, there is a decent moral fibre hidden deep inside Dorium. He lives and thrives on the murky side of society where he survives on his wits. His temperament is somewhat murcurial which adds a little danger - others can be nervous around him, but Dorium is multi layered. Very few really 'know' Dorium but when push comes to shove he is loyal, reliable and teflon coated.
How aware of the Doctor Who universe were you before you got the part? Were you a fan, and if so, what is your first memory of the show?
I was born in 1961 and was 2 when William Hartnell first appeared. I do remember him. In particular the change to Patrick Troughton. I refer to myself as a 'follower' of Doctor Who rather than a Fan. I take great pleasure in having been bullied in the past for supporting Dr Who I can laugh and gloat that I am now part of the huge BBC flagship phenomenon that IS Doctor Who.
How have you found the fan reactions to your character, and how does the impending prospect of convention appearances appeal to you?
The Fan reaction is very exciting and humbling at the same time. What really surprised is the immediate response to Dorium. Having only one scene with six lines initially, it is amazing how he caught everyone's imagination. Thankfully Steven Moffat loves Dorium too.
The conventions have been frightening and thrilling. Those who know me will tell you I'm a bit of a gas bag, there is nothing more I enjoy than mixing with people having a good chin wag. I have broad interests and am happy to pontificate on anything for hours.....! The only practical downside of the conventions is fatigue. The hands can start to ache with all the handshaking but I am delighted to help fans enjoy their day.
Finally, if you could have one round trip in the TARDIS, anywhere in time and space, where would you go and why?
Rather than a Place or Time I would go on a mission. I would collect all the Deities from ALL Faiths, Galaxies and the known Universe, sit them down and say '...We Need To Talk.....!!!!'
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[Source: Doctor Who Online]
