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Alan Cumming was twice offered the role of Doctor Who

June 8, 2017 by Samuel Brace

Actor Alan Cumming was apparently offered the lead role in Doctor Who twice, only to turn it down on both occasions.

There is always speculation about who the next Doctor might be, and it’s just as interesting to hear about what might have been, about who has been in contention to take on the iconic role in years past.

Well, according to Alan Cumming, the actor was offered the role twice himself, but turned it down because of a certain stipulation.

Speaking to The Huffington Post, Cumming was told that he would have to spend eight months of the year in Cardiff if he wanted to take the title role.

Cumming recalled, “And I think that might have been what blew it. Nothing against Cardiff, but…”

And then the second time he was considered for the part the same hurdle arose after series writer Mark Gattis told him about the Cardiff commitment.

Cumming remarked, “I’d do anything for Doctor Who, but I won’t do that.”

It seems not everyone is desperate to land the popular TV gig, and citizens of Cardiff are sure not to be too impressed with Cumming’s remarks.

Of course, it’s always interesting to think about what could have been, and Cumming is certainly the type of actor that could have shined in the part.

Originally published June 8, 2017. Updated April 16, 2018.

Filed Under: News, Samuel Brace, Television Tagged With: Alan Cumming, Doctor Who

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