With heavy heart we must report that Doctor Who actress Deborah Watling has passed away after a brief battle with lung cancer. She was diagnosed with the disease just six weeks ago.
She was 69.
Best known for playing 2nd Doctor companion Victoria Waterfield, (and daughter of Jack Watling, who played Professor Edward Travers) many of Deborah’s episodes are still missing, with her only complete serials being Tomb of the Cybermen and Enemy of the World. Most parts of The Ice Warriors and The Web of Fear exist as well.
Deborah was a delight to talk to, as we had the pleasure of doing at Time Eddy in Wichita two years ago. She often found herself the butt of many jokes frequently administered by co-star Frazer Hines, but you could tell it was all in good fun, and their panel was one of the more spirited and fun ones we’ve ever had the privilege to moderate.
Mel and I enjoyed a small, quiet moment with her poolside at Gally several years back. She came out of the hotel, looked up at the sun and closed her eyes for a moment to just bask. Then she looked at us, smiled brilliantly and commented the only downside to conventions was while you got to spend all day with lovely fans, you did it all indoors.
She was a class act, and we will miss her.
