Bonnie Langford, who played companion Melanie Bush in the 1980s, is set to return to Doctor Who. The actress, 58, will make a guest appearance in the upcoming series, which will be the first to feature Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor.
Langford first appeared in Doctor Who in 1986, alongside the Sixth Doctor, Colin Baker. She remained in the role for two seasons, also working with the Seventh Doctor, Sylvester McCoy. She has since reprised the role in several audio dramas and made a cameo appearance in the 2022 special, “The Power of the Doctor.”
In a statement, Langford said she was “thrilled” to be returning to Doctor Who. “To be part of the exceptional cast, crew and production team led by the force of nature that is Russell T Davies is a career highlight,” she said. “I’m so privileged and proud to have been a member of the Doctor Who family since the classic era and to be included in the new generation is phenomenal.”
Showrunner Russell T Davies said he was “delighted” to have Langford back on the show. “What an honour, delight and hoot to welcome back the character of Melanie, after too long away,” he said. “Bonnie is a national treasure and her energy and enthusiasm will be a joy to see on screen.”
Langford’s return is the latest in a series of casting announcements for the upcoming series of Doctor Who. Other actors who have been confirmed to appear include David Tennant, Catherine Tate, and Yasmin Finney.
The new series of Doctor Who is set to premiere in 2024.
