Richard Franklin, an acclaimed British actor famed for his role as Captain Mike Yates in “Doctor Who” and his appearance in “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” died at 87 years of age.

His passing was confirmed by his close friend and social media manager, Liam Rudden, stating that Franklin died peacefully in his sleep after battling a long-term illness on Monday, December 25, 2023.

Franklin’s acting career, which spanned several decades, was marked by his versatile and engaging performances in television and theater.

His initial rise to fame was through the British series “Dixon of Dock Green” in 1966, where he made his television debut. His major breakthrough came with the ITV soap “Crossroads,” leading to remarkable roles in series like “The Doctors,” “Little Women,” and “The Borgias.”

Nevertheless, Franklin is most fondly remembered for his portrayal of Captain Mike Yates in the iconic science fiction series “Doctor Who,” from 1971 to 1974, coinciding with Jon Pertwee’s tenure as the Doctor. His performance made a significant mark on the series’ fanbase and the genre of science fiction.

Franklin’s career also included a notable appearance in the 2016 film “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” and he played an important role in the popular British soap opera “Emmerdale Farm” as Denis Rigg for two years.

Apart from acting, Franklin was actively involved in politics, authoring “Forest Wisdom: Radical Reform of Democracy and the Welfare State,” and running as a parliamentary candidate for parties like the Liberal Democrats in 1992 and UKIP in 2001. He established the Silent Majority Party and stood as a candidate in the 2005 general election.

Rudden, in his statement, pointed out Franklin’s generosity, imaginative spirit, and great skill in storytelling. He expressed that Franklin’s legacy of bringing joy and entertainment would persist.