In the past few years, Benedict Cumberbatch has become widely known for his starring turn in the BBC’s “Sherlock,” a modern update of Sherlock Holmes. Since then, Cumberbatch has made appearances in “War Horse,” “Tinker Taylor Soldier Spy” and the upcoming “Star Trek” sequel, where he was recently seen fighting a famous vulcan.
But Spock may not be Cumberbatch’s only cosmic adversary. The Express is reporting that Cumberbatch is rumored to be in line to play The Master for the 50th anniversary of “Doctor Who.” The Master has been one of the Doctor’s greatest enemies since his introduction to the long-running series.
The Master was also one of the featured villains in the 20th anniversary special, “The Five Doctors.” John Simm is the most recent actor to have portrayed The Master during the third season of “Doctor Who” and “The End of Time” specials that concluded David Tennant’s run as The Doctor.
The Express cites the rumors to unnamed “Doctor Who” insiders, who offered up this quote: “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. Fans will love the idea of the man who plays Sherlock Holmes taking on the Doctor.’’
Cumberbatch has previously been rumored to have been approached about possibly playing The Doctor once Matt Smith departs the series. But Cumberbatch’s increasingly busy film schedule and the growing popularity of “Sherlock” would probably preclude that. Playing The Master would be a smart way to utilize Cumberbatch on “Doctor Who” without tying him to the series for a full season or more.
Lending some credence to the rumor is the fact that “Sherlock” and “Doctor Who” are both run by Steven Moffat; who could certainly facilitate the casting of Cumberbatch. However, it should be noted once again that this is simply a rumor at this point. And even the rumor states that it’s not a sure thing.
The seventh season of “Doctor Who” is currently filming in the UK. And the second season of “Sherlock” will make its U.S. debut in May.
How do you feel about Cumberbatch possibly playing The Master on “Doctor Who”? Sound off in the comment section below!
