Benedict Cumberbatch is reportedly in talks to play the role of The Master on the Doctor Who 50th anniversary special, which is slated to arrive after the end of the next season in the summer of 2013.
If true, this rumor gives us more information than just superficial news about an actor in the episode. There has been much speculation about what the 50th anniversary special might include, everything from a new doctor to a Doctor Who film, which may or may not tie in with the series.
The resurrection of the defeated nemesis of The Doctor, more dangerous than any of the monsters or aliens he typically spends his time battling against, may be the major plot point which defines the special episode.
Cumberbatch has been the subject of quite a bit of news lately. Making his fame in the title role of the BBC show Sherlock, he has since secured a role in J.J. Abrams new Star Trek film, as the villain, after starring in Steven Spielberg’s War Horse.
“It’s fitting that the Doctor comes face to face with his ultimate enemy The Master for the 50th anniversary and it’s felt Benedict is the perfect choice if schedules can work,” wrote The Daily Express, which based its report on an inside source.
“Fans will love the idea of the man who plays Sherlock Holmes taking on the Doctor. Benedict has often been asked about whether he would like to play the Doctor, so it will be ironic if he now ends up being The Master instead.”
The new season of Doctor Who – which begins this fall – will be split by the new year for budgeting reasons. The 50th anniversary special shouldl kick off sometime after the end of the season.
