Louise Jameson is beloved by Doctor Who fans for her portrayal of Leela, the fierce and intelligent companion to the Fourth Doctor, Tom Baker. In this interview, we delve into her experiences on the show, her thoughts on the character, and her ongoing connection to the Doctor Who universe.
From Stage to Screen: The Inspiration Behind an Acting Career
Every actor has a spark that ignites their passion, and for Louise Jameson, it was the encouragement of a dedicated drama teacher, Mrs. Tipping. From the age of 11 to 16, Mrs. Tipping’s guidance and belief in Jameson’s talent paved the way for her to attend the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). This foundational support, coupled with her mother’s unwavering encouragement, set Louise on the path to a successful acting career.
A Lifelong Connection with Doctor Who
Jameson’s relationship with Doctor Who predates her role as Leela. Remarkably, she recalls watching the very first episode of Doctor Who, establishing a connection with the series long before she became a part of its history. This early exposure likely contributed to her understanding of the show’s unique appeal and enduring legacy.
The Sunmakers: A Standout Episode for Leela
During her tenure as Leela, Louise Jameson appeared in nine stories, spanning 40 episodes. When asked to choose a favorite, she points to “The Sunmakers.” This story, a satirical commentary on taxation and bureaucracy, is notable for giving Leela a chance to showcase her intelligence and resourcefulness in a complex political environment.
[
Louisejameson](Louise Jameson as Leela in Doctor Who)
Decoding Leela: Feisty, Intelligent, and Instinctive
Leela is far from a damsel in distress. Jameson describes her character as “Feisty – Intelligent – Un-educated – Moral – Visceral – Sensitive – Instinctive.” This multifaceted description highlights Leela’s strength and independence, her sharp mind despite a lack of formal education, and her strong moral compass. Her visceral and instinctive nature often led to action-oriented solutions, making her a dynamic and compelling companion.
[
vlcsnap-2013-09-01-15h16m45s167](Leela and the Fourth Doctor in a scene from Doctor Who)
Working with the Fourth Doctor: A Journey of Growth
The on-screen chemistry between Leela and the Fourth Doctor was undeniable, but the off-screen dynamic between Louise Jameson and Tom Baker was initially challenging. Jameson candidly admits that working with Baker “Not easy…” at the time. However, time has healed any rifts, and she now considers him “an absolute dream” and a “good, good friend.” This evolution in their relationship is a testament to personal growth and the enduring bonds forged in the world of Doctor Who.
[
leela50th](Louise Jameson reprising her role as Leela for Doctor Who’s 50th anniversary)
Revisiting Leela with Big Finish: A Joyful Reunion
Louise Jameson has reprised the role of Leela numerous times for Big Finish audio dramas, much to the delight of fans. These audio adventures have offered a unique opportunity to further explore Leela’s character and her relationship with the Doctor. For Jameson, a significant highlight of these Big Finish projects has been the chance to work with Tom Baker again, but in a vastly improved and positive environment. She describes him as “inspirational and funny and lovely to be around” – a stark contrast to their earlier experiences and a testament to their renewed friendship.
[
BigFinishTheAbandoned1](Louise Jameson in a Big Finish Doctor Who audio drama)
Embracing the New Era of Doctor Who
Jameson is not just connected to Doctor Who’s past; she is also an enthusiastic viewer of the revived series. When asked about the newer episodes, she responds with an emphatic, “yes, and I absolutely love it.” This appreciation for the contemporary Doctor Who demonstrates her continued engagement with the franchise and its ongoing evolution.
Beyond Leela: A Diverse and Accomplished Career
While Leela remains an iconic role, Louise Jameson’s career extends far beyond the world of Doctor Who. When asked about her favorite role overall, she cites “Blanche in Tenko.” Tenko was a powerful BBC drama series set in a Japanese prisoner of war camp for women during World War II. Playing Blanche in Tenko showcased Jameson’s range and ability to tackle complex and demanding roles.
Looking ahead, Jameson expresses a passion for new writing and a desire to be presented with the “perfect role.” Among the classics, she mentions a few roles that intrigue her: Madam Arcati from Blithe Spirit, Lady Bracknell from The Importance of Being Earnest, and the wife in Death of a Salesman. These choices reveal her interest in characters with depth, wit, and dramatic complexity.
Currently, Louise Jameson remains actively involved in various projects. She is writing an episode of Survivors for Big Finish, recording four new Doctor Who audio stories with Tom Baker, performing in Love Loss and What I Wore, filming a short film, writing children’s stories and a children’s musical, and preparing for a pantomime role. Her continued creativity and dedication to her craft are truly inspiring, proving that Louise Jameson’s contributions to the entertainment world, and especially to the legacy of Leela in Doctor Who, are far from over.
Fans can follow Louise Jameson on Twitter and explore her website for more updates on her projects.
