Raymond Patrick Cusick, an English designer of immense talent, made his mark on the BBC, leaving an indelible mark on the world of science fiction television. Born on April 28, 1928, he would go on to have a long and illustrious career, spanning over five decades.
Cusick joined the BBC in 1960 as a staff designer, bringing with him a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating sets that transported viewers to new and exciting worlds. His work on Doctor Who, a science fiction television series that has captivated audiences for generations, is perhaps his most enduring legacy.
In 1963, Cusick was tasked with designing the iconic Daleks, a project that had previously been assigned to Ridley Scott, another talented BBC designer. Despite the challenges he faced, Cusick's design for the Daleks has become synonymous with the series, and his work on the show earned him a reputation as one of the most skilled and innovative designers of his time.
But Cusick's contributions to the world of television did not stop with Doctor Who. He went on to work on a wide range of programs, including The Pallisers, The Duchess of Duke Street, On Giant's Shoulders, When the Boat Comes In, Rentaghost, and Miss Marple, among many others.
Despite the recognition he received for his work on Doctor Who, Cusick felt that he should have been paid a royalty for his design of the Daleks, given the massive revenue generated by merchandise featuring his design. This sense of injustice led him to leave the show in 1966, a decision that was met with an ex-gratia payment of around £100 from the BBC.
In the late 1970s, Cusick returned to the BBC, where he worked as a designer on the James Burke program Connections. Throughout his career, he remained committed to his craft, always pushing the boundaries of what was possible and striving to create sets that were both visually stunning and narratively compelling.
Raymond Patrick Cusick passed away on February 21, 2013, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence designers to this day. His work on Doctor Who and other television programs remains a testament to his talent and dedication, and his legacy will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
