Richard Franklin, a renowned actor, is best recognized for his recurring role as Captain Mike Yates during the esteemed Jon Pertwee era of the BBC science fiction series Doctor Who, which premiered in 1963.
Franklin's journey in the entertainment industry began when he joined the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in 1963. His first professional acting gig was with the esteemed Century Theatre, where he honed his craft.
He soon landed small roles on television and, in addition, spent a year and a half with the renowned Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Franklin's talent and dedication eventually led to more work on television, radio, and commercials.
In 1971, Franklin made his debut on Doctor Who as UNIT officer Yates in the popular serial "Terror of the Autons: Episode One." This serial marked the introduction of the long-running villain, the Master, played by the talented Roger Delgado. Interestingly, Ian Marter, who later portrayed companion Harry Sullivan alongside Tom Baker, was also a strong contender for the role of Yates.
Franklin continued to appear regularly in the series until 1974, fittingly making his final appearance in Pertwee's last serial, "Planet of the Spiders: Part One." Although he briefly returned for a scene in "The Five Doctors" in 1983, his character's main storyline had come to a close.
Throughout his illustrious career, Franklin has remained an active and respected figure in the entertainment industry, still working as an actor to this day.
