David Tennant Does a Podcast With… — Russell T. Davies Episode Summary
Release Date: March 11, 2025
Podcast Information:
Title: David Tennant Does a Podcast With…
Host: David Tennant
Guest: Russell T. Davies
Produced by: Sony Music Entertainment / No Mystery
Introduction
In this engaging episode of "David Tennant Does a Podcast With…," David Tennant sits down with acclaimed television writer and producer Russell T. Davies. Known for revitalizing Doctor Who, creating groundbreaking series like Queer as Folk, and producing impactful dramas such as It's a Sin, Davies shares intimate insights into his life, career, and the creative processes behind some of television’s most influential works.
Early Life and Influences
Russell T. Davies opens up about his childhood in Wales, detailing the profound impact of his parents and the environment in Swansea. He recalls, “My mum had been brought up out on the Gower in absolute poverty...,” highlighting the resilience and resourcefulness instilled in him from a young age (05:00). Davies discusses his early affinity for storytelling, nurtured through the family's love for books and magazines, which fueled his passion for writing and art.
Education and Discovering Television
Davies reflects on his school years, emphasizing his involvement with the West Cormorant Youth Theatre. He notes, “My real life was when I was 11, 12 and I joined the West Cormorant Youth Theatre...,” underscoring how theater became his sanctuary away from an unfulfilling school environment (07:21). This formative experience cemented his love for drama and laid the foundation for his future career in television.
Breaking into Television: Early Challenges
Russell T. Davies candidly discusses the struggles he faced while trying to break into the television industry. Despite his determination, he was repeatedly turned down for BBC training schemes. Persisting through rejection, he recounts, “I applied, got turned down next year, applied for that, got three years running. I got turned down and I was so furious...” (12:24). This persistence eventually paid off, leading him to join Granada Television, where he collaborated with influential writers and producers who were beginning to shift the landscape of British television.
Creating Queer as Folk: A Groundbreaking Movement
One of the most pivotal moments in Davies's career was the creation of Queer as Folk. He shares the inspiration behind the show, aiming to depict authentic gay lives on screen. “If you ask me for a story now, I'd say, right, there's two men walking down the street, one of them's murdered...,” he explains, illustrating his commitment to representing genuine experiences (32:22). Davies discusses the show's initial reception, noting the controversy it stirred and its significant role in mainstreaming LGBTQ+ narratives on television. He reflects, “Queer As Folk... became something life-changing for many viewers...,” highlighting its enduring legacy and personal fulfillment.
Return to Doctor Who: Revitalizing a Classic
Davies's return to Doctor Who marked a significant resurgence for the iconic series. He recounts the challenges and triumphs of rebooting the show, emphasizing the importance of staying true to its roots while introducing fresh elements. “Doctor Who has a lot of gay fans, doesn't it?...,” Davies observes, acknowledging the show's diverse and passionate fanbase (14:52). He details his instinctive decisions, such as maintaining the Daleks' design and infusing emotional depth into the Doctor's character, which contributed to the series' renewed success.
Personal Life and Overcoming Tragedy
A particularly heartfelt segment delves into Davies's personal life, focusing on the devastating loss of his husband, Andrew. Davies shares the harrowing experience of Andrew's battle with a brain tumor, describing the emotional and practical challenges they faced together. “... he lived for another eight years...,” Davies reflects on how their relationship endured through immense hardship (56:48). He discusses the unwavering support and love that sustained him, despite the profound grief, and how these experiences influenced his storytelling, infusing his work with genuine emotion and resilience.
Impact and Legacy
Throughout the conversation, Davies emphasizes the responsibility of creators to represent marginalized communities authentically. “... there is an escape in that sense. And not that television was particularly gay...,” he notes, underscoring his dedication to filling voids within the television landscape (18:19). Davies highlights the transformative power of television in shaping societal perceptions and fostering understanding, a mission that has been central to his body of work.
Future Projects and Reflections
Looking ahead, Russell T. Davies discusses his ongoing projects and the evolving nature of television production. He contemplates the future of Doctor Who and the importance of nurturing new talent within the industry. “...every show it’s a new cast. Every show it’s a new idea...,” Davies explains, highlighting his role in guiding the creative vision and ensuring the legacy of beloved series continues to thrive (49:00). He expresses optimism about the potential for future narratives to inspire and resonate deeply with audiences.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with a heartfelt exchange between Tennant and Davies, celebrating their collaborative history and the profound impact of Davies's contributions to television. Their conversation not only sheds light on the intricacies of showrunning and scriptwriting but also offers a poignant look into the personal journeys that shape creative excellence.
Notable Quotes
- Russell T. Davies: "I have never told you how much the youth theatre changed my life." [07:34]
- Russell T. Davies: "Doctor Who has a lot of gay fans, doesn't it?" [14:52]
- Russell T. Davies: "I found it so stunning how Queer As Folk became life-changing for so many viewers." [40:23]
- Russell T. Davies: "You have to transmit. And I think I often call my job nagging." [24:20]
- Russell T. Davies: "The difference between having an idea and expressing that idea is enormous. And somewhere in between, that is where art is." [22:08]
Final Thoughts
This episode offers a comprehensive glimpse into Russell T. Davies's remarkable career and personal resilience. Through candid discussions and shared experiences, Davies articulates the essence of storytelling's power to transform lives and challenge societal norms. Listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and passion required to shape meaningful television narratives that resonate across generations.
Note: Timestamps are approximate and based on the provided transcript excerpts.