Doctor Who boss Russell T Davies pays heartfelt tribute to William Russell

Many people have shared their condolences after hearing about the passing of William Russell. The Doctor Who community is remembering and honoring the actor who portrayed the beloved character of Ian Chesterton.

Russell T Davies, the current showrunner on Doctor Who, paid tribute to the beloved fan favorite who passed away at 99 years old on June 3rd, 2024.

In a touching message shared on Instagram, Davies expressed his sorrow over the passing of William. The talented actor portrayed the Doctor's inaugural companion, Ian Chesterton, in 1963.

Imagine being a teacher, stuck on the TARDIS by a cunning and experienced Doctor, unable to return home, and being taken on exciting adventures through time and space. Visiting different eras, from the prehistoric Stone Age to the far-off planet of the Zarbi and even the famous conflict of the Crusades - how incredible it must be!

This blog section talks about a talented and versatile actor who portrayed his role with finesse. He convincingly portrayed the character in his early years and earned appreciation for his wit and heartfelt acting. Not many know that he was also known for playing Sir Lancelot on the BBC before he landed the role in Doctor Who. Later, he played the character of Ted Sullivan and got married to Rita Fairclough on Coronation Street.

I met him on a train in 2018 and was really impressed with him! I was really surprised to see him and he talked about his son, Alfred Enoch, who I had watched in King Lear at the Royal Exchange. He was a really nice man and I wish him a wonderful and fulfilling life. Great job, sir, and thanks for the great conversation!

Some people who paid their respects included Sylvester McCoy, who played the Seventh Doctor, and he wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter): "Rest in peace, William Russell. We lived close to each other and would see each other around. He always greeted me with a warm, friendly smile. It's sad to hear that he's no longer with us."

At the same time, Katy Manning, the actress who portrayed Jo Grant in the show, wrote her own message: "This wonderful, amusing, and kind man... I feel so thankful for having met him and express my sincere sympathies to his wife Etheline and beloved family."

Anneke Wills, who portrayed Polly as a companion in the program, shared a message on social media suggesting we all light a candle for William Russell in the evening. She spoke highly of him and referred to him as a pleasant individual. Best, Anneke.

Russell made his initial appearance as Ian Chesterton in Doctor Who's maiden tale, An Unearthly Child. His latest performance was in the show's 2022 episode, The Power of the Doctor.