As a fervent fan, I can’t help but express my delight over the revelation by Russell T Davies, the mastermind behind Doctor Who. He shared that Archie Panjabi’s casting as the Rani was not just a casual choice, but a crucial one. The importance lies in the fact that an Indian actress was chosen for this role, which I believe adds a rich layer of diversity to the series.
Following numerous speculations, the concluding acts of The Intergalactic Music Festival revealed Anita Dobson’s character, Mrs. Flood, transforming into the Rani, while Panjabi assumed her alternate role.
Originally portrayed by the legendary actress Kate O’Mara, who passed away in 2014, this renowned Time Lady scientist made her debut in 1985 during “The Mark of The Rani.
This round, however, the creators behind Doctor Who decided they wanted an Indian actress for the role, as Rani is a Sanskrit name meaning “Queen.
Davies told Doctor Who Magazine: “After all these years, it was time to cast the right heritage.
It seemed crucial to choose an Indian actor for the role of the Rani. Frankly, I’d love to see Archie Panjabi in any role! However, Phil Collinson had previously collaborated with her on “Sea of Souls,” and it’s always beneficial when directors have prior experience with actors.
“Immediately, she plunged right in and had a clear understanding of both Kate O’Mara and the background. It was an immediate affirmative and an utter pleasure to collaborate with her.
Earlier, during an interview with TopMob magazine, Panjabi shared that her performance was intended as a tribute to O’Mara.
Or:
In an interview with TopMob magazine, Panjabi revealed that she planned to pay homage to O’Mara through her performance.
Or:
Panjabi discussed in her conversation with TopMob magazine how she intended to honor O’Mara with her act.
Panjabi noted, upon rewatching, that an extraordinary power and aura were particularly noticeable.
I wanted the viewers to catch a glimpse, even if fleeting, of the captivating resemblance between the actress and the character she played, specifically reminiscent of Kate O’Mara as the Rani.
In the thrilling season finale, “The Reality War,” I found myself left reeling as Panjabi’s formidable character, Rani, met her ultimate demise at the hands of Omega. Yet, surprisingly, Mrs. Flood’s embodiment somehow managed to survive the chaos.
Doctor Who Magazine Issue 618 is on sale now from panini.co.uk and WH Smith priced £7.99 (UK).
Immerse yourself in our comprehensive Doctor Who tale compendium: critiques for each episode dating back to 1963, along with cast and crew rosters, behind-the-scenes facts, and unique content sourced directly from the TopMob vault.
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2025-06-22 10:33