The community of fans of the iconic science fiction series "Doctor Who" are mourning the death of Richard Franklin, known for his role as Captain Mike Yates in the series. Franklin died this Monday morning, December 25, in his sleep, after a long battle against an unspecified illness. He was 87 years old.
In an emotional statement, Franklin's family expressed their deep sorrow over the loss and remembered the actor for his generosity, his creative spirit and his ability to tell fascinating stories. Likewise, they have highlighted his extensive and successful career in television and theater, which brought him great joy and has left a lasting legacy. Liam Rudden, Franklin's close friend and social media manager, has paid tribute to his memory, highlighting the love the actor felt for his fans.
The news of his death has shocked colleagues and admirers. Rudden himself, to whom Franklin gave his first professional job as an actor, has been devastated by the loss of his mentor and friend, and has announced that the details of the funeral will be announced through the late actor's social networks.
Katy Manning, who shared the screen with him in "Doctor Who" as Jo Grant, has expressed her gratitude for having seen him recently and sent her condolences to Franklin's family.
Born in London, Franklin began his television career in a 1966 episode of the British series "Dixon of Dock Green," before rising to fame in the ITV soap opera "Crossroads." Over the years, he appeared in numerous British productions such as "The Saint", "The Borgias" and "Heartbeat". On the big screen, Franklin had a role in the sci-fi horror film "Chemical Wedding" and in "Star Wars Rogue One" as scientist Sirro Argonne.
However, his most famous role was that of Captain Mike Yates in "Doctor Who" during the Jon Pertwee era, between 1971 and 1974. Franklin reprized this character on several occasions for spin-offs of the series. He also had a prominent role in "Emmerdale Farm" as Denis Rigg, a character he played for two years.
In addition to his acting career, Franklin was politically active, standing as a candidate in several UK general elections for parties such as the Liberal Democrats, the Referendum Party and UKIP, before founding the Silent Majority Party.
