Doctor Who writer Neil Gaiman reveals that a black actor turned down the role of Time Lord
ALTHOUGH fans have aired their joy with the decision that Peter Capaldi take on the role as the 12th Doctor Who, a few were left disappointed that a black actor had not been given the opportunity.
However, Neil Gaiman - who has written two episodes of the hit sci-fi programme - has revealed that a black actor was offered the role once upon a time, but turned it down.
The writer often encourages his fans to ask him questions about the show through his blog, which boasts a strong fan base, and when the subject came up, he made the admission.
Confessing that he knew "one black actor who had already been offered the part of the Doctor, and who turned it down" he also revealed that he would "absolutely" like to see a black
Time Lord and believes that the new casting was a "missed opportunity."
The star went on to admit that his revelation wasn't to do with the role of the 12 Doctor, but a previous casting and refused to name the actor in question.
Peter Capaldi was named as the 12th Doctor on Sunday night.
Famous for turning the air blue as PR guru Malcolm Tucker in the political comedy The Thick Of It, joked: “It’s so wonderful not to keep this secret any longer.”
The Scottish actor is a lifelong fan of the show and has already appeared in it once in a minor role.