Former Doctor Who star Peter Purves has voiced his criticism of the current direction of the show, suggesting it has lost touch with its roots.
Speaking to the Daily Star, the actor, who played classic era companion Steven Taylor alongside William Hartnell’s First Doctor, described the modern show far removed from the programme he once knew.
“When Doctor Who started it was a children’s programme, we had a weekly cliffhanger and it was simple,” Purves recalled. “I liked it when it was straightforward entertainment. But it’s a very different show now. I don’t watch it any more, to be honest.”
Purves went on to criticise the show’s high-budget spectacle, indicating that its glossy presentation has overshadowed its original charm. “It’s very extravagant and there are lots of special effects. You can see the money on the screen. It’s a multi-million pound production,” he said. “It looks incredible. But it’s not really Doctor Who for me.”
The actor believes the series has strayed too far from its roots to ever return to its earlier form. “It couldn’t go back now. It’s gone too far to go back,” he admitted.
Despite his misgivings, Purves said he would still jump at the chance to appear in the series again, even in a small role. “I would love a cameo. But it won’t happen,” he said.