The sad news was confirmed by actor John Ducker’s son Guy, who posted an emotional tribute on Facebook while fans rushed to pay their respects online
Actor John Ducker – known for voicing the dog K9 in Dr Who – has sadly died after a “summer of illness”, according to his family. Also referred to by his stage name John Leeson, the star’s passing was “peaceful” as per an emotional statement from his son, Guy.
In a status on Facebook posted earlier today (November 1), Guy wrote: “I regret to announce the death of my father, John Ducker, a.k.a. John Leeson, at 3:03pm today after a summer of illness. The end was peaceful. ‘Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.'”
Although the 83-year-old actor was better known for his Whovian roles, he also portrayed the original Bungle the bear in the children’s television series Rainbow and appeared in shows like Blake’s 7 and Dad’s Army.
Ducker was first brought on as the voice of K9 in Doctor Who for 1977’s The Invisible Enemy episode.
Producer Graham Williams loved his performance and retained him as a regular character in order to appeal to the show’s younger audience.
Dr Who icon Tom Baker – who played the Fourth Doctor – famously detested the character of K9, but got on well with Ducker.
One fan wrote under Guy’s announcement: “I’m ever so sorry for your loss. Your father meant the world to many people. I was four years old when I got into “Doctor Who” and him voicing K9 always made me smile.
“I wish he could’ve returned. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.”
His film credits were few but included the Hunt Secretary in the film of Tarka the Otter (1979), and a TV interviewer in the film version of Whoops Apocalypse (1986).
Ducker’s radio work includes the comedy serial All That Jazz (1990) in which he played the character of Mike and additionally provided the scripted continuity link at the beginning.
Ducker is survived by his son Guy and wife Judy Griffiths, who he married in 1969.