Skip to contentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleWant to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today.Join todayAlready a member? Log inGreg EvansMonday 02 November 2026 09:07 GMTJohn Leeson, voice of K9 on Doctor Who (James Dimelow/Wiki Commons)Actor John Leeson, best known as the voice of the iconic robotic dog K9 in Doctor Who, has died at the age of 83 following a summer of illness.His death was announced by his son, Guy Ducker, who confirmed that his father passed away peacefully.Former Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies paid tribute to Leeson, describing him as a fine actor and a true gent who brought immense dedication and humour to the character for decades.First voicing K9 in 1977 opposite Tom Baker, Leeson reprised the role across multiple audio dramas, spin-offs such as The Sarah Jane Adventures, and the 2006 television revival.Beyond Doctor Who, the RADA-trained actor enjoyed a versatile career spanning six decades, featuring in prominent television shows including Rainbow, Dad's Army, Blake's 7, Sorry! and Crown Court.In fullDoctor Who's K9 voice actor John Leeson dies aged 83More bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in