The Stage

John Scott Martin

Published Monday 12 January 2009 at 14:30 by Catriona Martin

My father John Scott Martin had an acting career that spanned half a century and included West End musicals, the Monty Python films and even a role as chief Dalek in Doctor Who.

Born in Toxteth, Liverpool, on April 1, 1926, his first performances were as a chorister at St Philemon’s church.

After active service with the Gordon Highlanders, he joined the Liverpool Grand Opera Company. A professional panto at the Liverpool Empire would start an acting career that lasted more than 50 years.

He performed in West End shows, such as Kismet, Oliver! and The Streets of London, and played the rabbi opposite Topol in Fiddler on the Roof at Manchester Opera House.

John worked in the early days on live television. He appeared in more than 110 episodes of Doctor Who and as the chief Dalek, attempted to exterminate the first five doctors.

In film, John worked with Monty Python in Eric the Viking and The Meaning of Life, he appeared in Little Shop of Horrors and Pink Floyd’s The Wall. His characterful face made him perfect for the retiring 192 in the 118 118 commercial and his final role was as Rico in Mine All Mine for Red Productions.

John lived in Great Maplestead, where he was church warden and school governor and, as he loved people, he enjoyed village life. As he bravely battled Parkinson’s disease, cared for by his devoted wife Margaret, he took great pleasure in following and supporting my acting career. He passed away peacefully, aged 82, on January 6. A perfect gentleman, warm, kind and funny, he will be missed by so many.

John’s funeral will take place at 12 noon on Saturday, January 17 at St Giles Church, Great Maplestead, Nr Halstead, Essex.