Simon Callow is Charles Dickens

According to a report in today's "Independent," and now confirmed on the official site, actor Simon Callow will be playing the role of Charles Dickens in an episode of the new series set in Victorian times. "To be honest," Callow told the Independent, "when they sent me the script, my heart sank. As I know all about Dickens, I can say with authority that most attempts to put him on screen are awful - and there are a lot of them. But this script, by Russell T Davis [sic], who wrote Queer as Folk, is fantastic." Davies told BBCi, "It's wonderful to welcome an actor of Simon Callow's calibre on board the TARDIS. As soon as the words 'Charles Dickens' first appeared in Mark Gatiss's clever, scary, inventive script, then we knew there was only one actor we wanted to approach. We're genuinely honoured that Simon has accepted, and I know that Chris and Billie are delighted too. This sets the standard for a Doctor Who with wonderful casts, exciting scripts and the highest production values." Callow's many roles include such films as "Four Weddings and a Funeral," "Amadeus," "Shakespeare in Love," "James and the Giant Peach" and the forthcoming adaptation of "The Phantom of the Opera." (Thanks to everyone who caught the Independent report this morning and let us know...)

Please note: A few people have asked us why we posted this since they believe it is a spoiler. Outpost Gallifrey does not consider major casting developments (or the characters they play), or indeed any major developments, spoilers if they are widely reported in the mass media, newspapers or such places as BBCi. Knowing Callow plays Charles Dickens tells you nothing specific about the story. Thank you.