Dave Martin, a celebrated English author, has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape by prolifically penning a diverse array of captivating thrillers, whimsical children's books, and ingenious teleplays.
Martin's fervent enthusiasm for the theatrical realm led him to embark on a stint as a stagehand at the esteemed Bristol Old Vic, an experience that would subsequently have a profound impact on his future writing endeavors.
As the years went by, he formed a lasting and enduring bond with animator Bob Baker in 1968, marking the beginning of a highly successful and fruitful screenwriting partnership. This collaborative effort would yield a remarkable eight episodes for the iconic British television series Z Cars, which first premiered on the small screen in 1962.
Martin and Baker's most significant and enduring legacies within the realm of popular culture are undoubtedly their eight-part contribution to the iconic Doctor Who franchise, a series of episodes that have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of fans worldwide. Among these, the cherished "The Three Doctors" episode stands out as a testament to the duo's innovative storytelling and artistic vision.
As a nod to the enigmatic and complex nature of the character, Martin and Baker created the formidable Time Lord Omega, initially christened 'OHM', a moniker that subtly alludes to the dichotomy between Omega's persona and that of the Doctor. This creative decision not only added depth to the narrative but also underscored the dichotomy between these two extraordinary individuals.
The producers of the show, Barry Letts and Terrance Dicks, affectionately referred to Martin and Baker as the "Bristol Boys", a moniker that not only reflected their shared geographical roots but also acknowledged the duo's unique creative synergy and partnership.
From the 1970s onwards, the creative duo of Martin and Baker dedicated themselves to crafting scripts for an impressive 34 episodes of the iconic British sci-fi television series, Doctor Who. This remarkable collaboration spanned two distinct eras of the show, namely the Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker periods.
The concept of the ingenious mechanical canine, K-9, was born out of Martin's personal heartache, as his beloved pet dog met a tragic end when struck by a car. This devastating event served as a catalyst for Martin's imagination, leading him to author four captivating children's books featuring a robotic hound.
Tom Baker
Tom Baker is a renowned English actor, best known for his iconic portrayal of the Fourth Doctor in the long-running British television series, Doctor Who. Born on January 20, 1934, in Inner London, England, Baker began his acting career in the 1960s, initially appearing in various stage productions.
Throughout his illustrious career, Baker has appeared in a wide range of films, television shows, and stage productions, showcasing his remarkable versatility as an actor. In addition to his work on Doctor Who, Baker has also lent his voice to several documentaries, audio dramas, and video games.
John Leeson
John Leeson is a British actor and voice artist, best known for providing the voice of K-9, the lovable and intelligent robotic dog, in the British television series Doctor Who. Born on July 28, 1943, in London, England, Leeson began his acting career in the 1960s, initially appearing in various stage productions.
Leeson's association with Doctor Who began in the 1970s, when he provided the voice of K-9, a mechanical dog created by Professor Marius, a brilliant scientist. Leeson's iconic performance as K-9 has made him a beloved figure among Doctor Who fans worldwide.
Philip Hinchcliffe
Philip Hinchcliffe is a British television producer and writer, best known for his work on the classic British television series, Doctor Who. Born on September 9, 1937, in London, England, Hinchcliffe began his career in the television industry in the 1960s, initially working as a production assistant.
Hinchcliffe's association with Doctor Who began in the 1970s, when he was appointed as the producer of the show. During his tenure, Hinchcliffe oversaw the production of several critically acclaimed episodes, including the classic serial, "The Genesis of the Daleks."
As the collaborative journey of the duo came to a close at the turn of the decade, Peter Baker embarked on a remarkable solo career, leveraging his creative prowess to contribute significantly to the development of the beloved animated Wallace & Gromit franchise.
Meanwhile, Martin redirected his attention towards crafting gripping crime novels, a testament to his versatility as a writer.
In a poignant twist, Martin was bestowed the honor of being posthumously recognized as a co-creator of the spin-off series K9, which premiered two years following his untimely passing, serving as a lasting tribute to his innovative spirit and creative legacy.
(Peter Martin's biography)
