Three’s a jolly good fellow
This Friday marks 104 years since the birth of Jon Pertwee, remembered as the Third Doctor in Doctor Who.
Born John Devon Roland Pertwee on 7th July 1919, Pertwee was a multifaceted actor whose contributions to the world of entertainment extend far beyond his time in the TARDIS. With his impeccable acting skills, commanding presence and boundless enthusiasm, Pertwee left an indelible mark on the world of acting and science fiction.
Pertwee’s portrayal of the Doctor from 1970 to 1974 marked a significant turning point in the show’s history. Moving away from Patrick Troughton’s Chaplinesque interpretation of the Second Doctor, Pertwee brought a newfound sophistication and elegance to the character. Known for his dapper appearance, flamboyant velvet jackets, and a penchant for gadgets, Pertwee’s Doctor exuded an air of authority and paternalism that captivated audiences. His portrayal introduced the concept of a more action-oriented Doctor, skilled in martial arts and often seen behind the wheel of his beloved vintage car, Bessie.
Pertwee’s tenure coincided with Doctor Who’s change from black-and-white to colour, and also witnessed significant changes in the show’s format, as the Doctor was exiled to Earth and became a scientific advisor to UNIT (United Nations Intelligence Taskforce). This Earth-bound setting allowed Pertwee to explore his comedic side, and saw him interact with a colourful cast of regular characters, including assistant Jo Grant (Katy Manning), Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart (Nicholas Courtney), Captain Mike Yates (Richard Franklin) and Sergeant Benton (John Levene). Pertwee’s chemistry with his co-stars in the “UNIT family” added depth and warmth to his portrayal, creating memorable on-screen relationships that resonated with viewers.
One of the most enduring additions to Doctor Who during this period was the introduction of the Doctor’s arch-nemesis, the Master, played by Roger Delgado. The dynamic between Pertwee’s Doctor and Delgado’s Master remains legendary, with their cat-and-mouse games and intellectual duels becoming the stuff of television history. Pertwee’s portrayal perfectly encapsulated the Doctor’s moral righteousness and determination to outwit and defeat his timeless adversary.
Beyond Doctor Who, Pertwee enjoyed a distinguished acting career that spanned six decades. He appeared in numerous films, television and radio shows, showcasing his versatility as an actor. However, his time as the Doctor undoubtedly remains the pinnacle of his career. Pertwee’s performances transcended the small screen, bringing an unparalleled charisma to the role that endeared him to generations of fans. A loyal advocate for the series both on and off screen, Pertwee’s unwavering commitment to Doctor Who helped rejuvenate the show during a period of uncertainty, cementing its place as a cultural phenomenon.
Jon Pertwee’s legacy as the Third Doctor endures to this day. His portrayal set the stage for future actors to interpret the character, and his influence can be seen in subsequent iterations of the Doctor. Pertwee’s ability to seamlessly blend comedy, action, and gravitas made him an unforgettable incarnation of the Time Lord during a defining period in the show’s history. His sophisticated portrayal, larger-than-life personality, and unwavering dedication to the role made him an iconic figure in the world of science fiction. Pertwee’s impact on Doctor Who and his contributions to the entertainment industry as a whole ensure that his legacy will continue to shine brightly, inspiring actors and captivating audiences for generations to come.
The story of Jon Pertwee’s upbringing and early career is available from Fantom in his autobiography Moon Boots and Dinner Suits, while audio commentary on many of his most fondly remembered Who episodes may be found in our Who Talk series, including The Three Doctors, ReU.N.I.T.ed (Volume 2), Peladon, The Daemons and The Green Death. The memoir of producer Barry Letts, Who and Me, contains fascinating insights into the show’s production during this period and his working relationship with Jon Pertwee; and the autobiography of actor John Levene, a.k.a. the ever-loyal Sergeant Benton, Run the Shadows, Walk the Sun, is also available.
