Strictly star reveals why Doctor Who role was ‘dream come true’

EntertainmentLifestyle
30 May 2025 • 8:34 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Rose Ayling-Ellis, the 'Strictly Come Dancing' champion, appeared in the third episode of the latest season of 'Doctor Who', titled 'The Well'.
  • Ayling-Ellis, who is deaf, collaborated with showrunner Russell T Davies to adapt her character, Aliss, who was not originally written as deaf.
  • Speaking at the Hay Festival, Ayling-Ellis expressed her lifelong love for 'Doctor Who' and revealed how she ‘teared up’ when she saw the Tardis on set, describing it as a 'dream come true'.
  • Ayling-Ellis highlighted the lack of funding for children’s education in the deaf community, emphasising that hearing aids and cochlear implants are not substitutes for specialist support.
  • The Hay Festival, in partnership with The Independent, is hosting The News Review, featuring discussions on current headlines with figures from various fields.

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