25 May 2004

Teen pop star Billie Piper to appear in Doctor Who

The former teen pop star Billie Piper will play Doctor Who's companion when the series returns to BBC1 later this year, it has been announced today.

The former singer who made her acting debut last year in the BBC1 drama serial Canterbury Tales: The Miller's Tale, will star as Rose Tyler in the forthcoming 13-part drama series – alongside Christopher Eccleston's The Doctor.

"Doctor Who is an iconic show and I am absolutely thrilled to be playing the part of Rose Tyler," says Billie Piper.

"I am also looking forward to working with Christopher Eccleston and writer Russell T Davies."

Julie Gardner, Head of Drama, BBC Wales, said that they were looking for a unique, dynamic partner for Christopher Eccleston, and Billie fitted the bill perfectly.

Executive producer/writer, Russell T Davies, added: "The Doctor's companion is one of the most important and cherished roles in the history of TV drama.

"I'm delighted that someone of Billie's talent is coming on board the Tardis, to travel through time and space."

Piper, who also received critical-acclaim for her role in Bella and the Boys, a one-off drama for BBC2, is currently starring opposite Hollywood actor Orlando Bloom in The Calcium Kid.

Filming for Doctor Who begins in Cardiff later this year.

(gmcg)