The Dr. Who Influence on Stargate's Rodney McKay

Introduction

Today, we're diving into an intriguing connection between two beloved sci-fi worlds: the timeless Doctor Who series and the vibrant universe of Stargate Atlantis. Specifically, we're exploring how Doctor Who inspired the characterization of Dr. Rodney McKay. Let's embark on this fascinating journey through sci-fi history and character development.

The Sci-Fi Connection

It's no secret that fans and creators of science fiction often draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of the genre. This story starts with a fascinating article from SYFY Wire, featuring insights from David Hewlett, who brought Dr. Rodney McKay to life on Stargate Atlantis. Hewlett himself has been a lifelong fan of the sci-fi genre, a passion that has significantly influenced his portrayal of McKay.

The Hewlett-Doctor Who Link

David Hewlett's journey with sci-fi isn't just about enjoying iconic shows like Doctor Who; it's about how deeply this passion has influenced his career and work ethic. As a fan, Hewlett absorbed the essence of the early Doctor Who series, especially the performances by original Doctors like William Hartnell and John Pertwee. These characters, often depicted as grumpy old men with a sharp intellect, resonated with Hewlett and inspired elements of McKay's character.

From Childhood to Character Creation

Hewlett's love for science fiction traces back to his childhood, where he engaged in creating sci-fi films with friends using an eight-millimeter camera. This active participation in the genre laid the groundwork for his understanding and portrayal of McKay, demonstrating that his connection to sci-fi was not just a job, but a part of his identity.

How Doctor Who Shaped Rodney McKay

In the SYFY Wire article, Hewlett openly discusses how Doctor Who's influence is deeply embedded in his work on Stargate Atlantis. The grumpy yet intellectually superior Doctor Who was a direct inspiration for McKay's character, as Hewlett channeled that "grumpy old man" energy into McKay's brilliant, impatient persona.

A Legacy of Sci-Fi Inspiration

The article also highlights how the legacy of Stargate continues to thrive. With spin-offs like Stargate Atlantis becoming a staple of the SYFY lineup and creators like Dean Devlin and Jonathan Glassner moving on to projects like The Ark, the ripple effect of early creative sparks nurtures ongoing storytelling within the genre.

Hewlett's Aspirations

An interesting tidbit from the article reveals that Hewlett harbors dreams of playing the Doctor himself someday, emphasizing the transformative concept of regeneration and his deep connection to the mythos of Doctor Who.

Conclusion

Reflecting on this connection between Doctor Who and Rodney McKay provides a lens through which we can appreciate the influences that shape the characters and stories we love. Hewlett's story is a reminder of how our early passions can inform our present creative endeavors. It encourages us to ponder the origins of our own interests and how they shape not only what we create but how we experience the world.

Until next time, keep exploring the universe of science fiction, and remember that the stories and characters we love are echoes of past influences and inspirations.

Listen to the full podcast episode here!