Douglas Adams' DOCTOR WHO script to be remade

Uncompleted television story "Shada" to become a webcast audio drama

By Richard Salter     November 13, 2002
Source: BBCi

The BBC has unveiled plans for a new production of DOCTOR WHO to be webcast on BBCi, their official website, during the show's 40th anniversary year in 2003. It's going to be a remake of a Douglas Adams script.

"Shada" was originally intended to be made for television starring Tom Baker as the Doctor back in the 1970's. However, industrial action by workers at the BBC meant that the story was only half completed and was never broadcast.

BBCi has also revealed casting details for the remake. Unfortunately, Baker will not be reprising the role that made him famous. Instead, Paul McGann, who played the role in the 1996 TV movie, will fill his predecessor's shoes.

Joining him will be Lalla Ward and John Leeson, who will play their TV roles of Romana and K9, alongside Andrew Sachs of FAWLTY TOWERS fame, James Fox (PATRIOT GAMES, SEXY BEAST), Susannah Harker (ULTRAVIOLET) and Sean Biggserstaff (HARRY POTTER).

The webcast will be produced by Big Finish Productions, while Adams' script has been adapted by Gary Russell and will be directed by Nicholas Pegg. It will be accompanied online by animated illustrations from Lee Sullivan.

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