Doctor Who star Paul McGann has signed up as the latest recruit to the Holby City cast, joing the medical drama as surgical star Professor John Gaskell who will save the team from a major crisis on the wards.

The charismatic newcomer will take the lead when Holby faces serious challenges and will introduce new surgical innovations which will shape the future of the hospital – but, along the way, he is expected to clash with formidable characters such as Jac, Ric and Hanssen.

Paul is best known for playing the eighth Doctor, but has also had memorable roles in Withnail and I, Luther, Jonathan Creek, and Alien 3.



Speaking of his new role, he enthused: ‘I’m really excited to be joining Holby. Professor John Gaskell is certainly going to be an interesting character and I can’t wait to get started on the wards.’


(Picture: Alex Mallinson)

Oliver Kent, Head of Continuing Drama for BBC Scripted Studios, added: ‘I am utterly thrilled that the brilliant Paul McGann has agreed to join the cast of Holby City as Professor John Gaskell.

‘I’ve admired Paul’s work for many years on stage, screen and radio and it’s a dream come true that he is joining our company. In his hands, John Gaskell will be a mercurial force to be reckoned with and I can’t wait to see him locking horns with Jac, Hanssen, Griffin and the other Holby titans.’

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