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Last updated on the 2 June 2025 by Evandrus
Mini Biography
Born: 13 April 1951, Streatham, London, England.
Peter Davison was born to Claude and Sheila Moffett. Claude, originally from British Guiana (now known as Guyana), was a radio engineer before he started his own grocery store. Sheila served in intelligence during World War II and later became a home-maker. Davison had three sisters: Shirley, Pamela and Barbara. While living in Streatham, he attended Granton Primary School. The family later relocated to Knaphill in Surrey. During this period, Davison participated in a local amateur theatre group called the Byfleet Players.
Davison attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), where he trained rigorously in various acting techniques. His time at RADA proved to be pivotal, fuelling his passion for acting and allowing him to explore various facets of performance. After graduating in the early 1970s, Davison embarked on a professional career that would see him transition from stage to screen with remarkable finesse. He made his first significant mark in television in the mid-1970s with roles in British series such as “All Creatures Great and Small,” in which he portrayed the young waggish veterinarian, Tristan Farnon.
In 1981, Davison stepped into one of his most iconic roles as the Fifth Doctor in the long-running science fiction series, “Doctor Who.” His portrayal introduced a new generation to the character, distinguished by a youthful energy, warmth and a mix of vulnerability and authority. During his time on the show, from 1981 to 1984, he worked alongside a host of talented actors and contributed significantly to the series’ enduring legacy. His tenure as the Doctor saw the introduction of several memorable companions and story arcs that captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
Apart from his professional achievements, Peter Davison’s personal life has been marked by both success and challenges. He married Diane J. Russell in 1973, but they divorced in 1975. He then married actress Sandra Dickinson in 1978, with whom he had a daughter, Georgia Moffett (married to David Tennant), a successful actress and producer. The couple divorced in 1986 but remained amicable co-parents. Davison later married Elizabeth Morton in 2002, further enriching his family life with additional children.
Today, Peter Davison continues to be involved in the performing arts while also exploring new avenues through writing and directing. He has maintained a connection with “Doctor Who,” participating in revivals, special events and reunions that celebrate the series’ rich history.
Suggested viewing
At Home with the Braithwaites (2000)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.2
An ordinary suburban family experiences a dramatic upheaval when the mother wins an enormous lottery prize. Negotiating their sudden wealth, long-held secrets begin to surface, family bonds are strained and individual challenges emerge. This darkly humorous drama delves into the intricacies of familial relationships and the surprising consequences of instant riches on everyday people.
Top cast: Amanda Redman, Peter Davison, Sarah Smart, Sarah Churm, Julie Graham, Kevin Doyle, Keeley Fawcett, Ishia Bennison.
Distant Shores (2005)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.2
To mend their struggling marriage, a successful but unenthusiastic city doctor follows his veterinarian wife to a remote island. She’s accepted a research position there, forcing their family to trade bustling city life for the island’s quirky charm and close-knit community. The husband, however, finds it difficult to adjust to the slower pace and the absence of the professional prestige he once enjoyed.
Top cast: Peter Davison, Samantha Bond, Gareth Thomas, Emma Fildes, Berwick Kaler, Matthew Thomas Davies, Yvette Rowland, Craig Heaney, Claudia Renton.
Similar to
Campion (1989)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.6
“Campion” is a British television series based on the literary works of Margery Allingham, featuring the clever and charismatic amateur detective Albert Campion. Set in the early 20th century, the show follows Campion as he solves intricate murder mysteries, often infused with humour and social commentary. His investigations reveal the complexities of human nature, as he interacts with a diverse cast of characters, from the upper classes to the criminal underworld, using his wit and resourcefulness to uncover the truth behind each case.
Top cast: Peter Davison, Brian Glover, Andrew Burt, Moray Watson, Ian Ogilvy, Robert Lang ,Gordon Jackson, Michael Gough, Jean Anderson, Timothy West.
Doctor Who (1981)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.4
Doctor Who is a British sci-fi series following the adventures of the Doctor, a time-travelling alien with the ability to regenerate into new bodies. Alongside various companions, they explore time and space, battling enemies and saving civilisations while protecting the fabric of reality from threats both old and new.
Top cast: Peter Davison, Janet Fielding, Sarah Sutton, Matthew Waterhouse, Anthony Ainley.
All Creatures Great and Small (1978)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.4
“All Creatures Great and Small” is a TV series based on James Herriot’s autobiographical books. Set in the Yorkshire Dales during the 1930s, it follows the life of a young veterinarian as he navigates his way through humorous and heartwarming encounters with animals, clients and colleagues in a rural community.
Top cast: Christopher Timothy, Robert Hardy, Peter Davison, Carol Drinkwater, Mary Hignett, Andrea Gibb, John McGlynn, Lynda Bellingham.
The Five(ish) Doctors Reboot (2013)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.5
“The Five(ish) Doctors Reboot” is a comedic TV special created by Peter Davison. It follows the adventures of former Doctor Who actors, including Davison himself, as they try to secure roles in the 50th-anniversary episode. With humour and cameos galore, they embark on a hilarious quest to be part of the iconic event.
Top cast: Peter Davison, Colin Baker, Sylvester McCoy, Paul McGann, David Tennant, Matt Smith, John Barrowman, Jenna Coleman.
The Last Detective (2003)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.8
“The Last Detective” is a British TV series about the life of Detective Constable “Dangerous” Davies, an unconventional but well-meaning detective in the understaffed CID department. With his loyal dog and determination to solve cases, he wades through comedic misadventures while solving crimes and pursuing justice in London.
Top cast: Peter Davison, Sean Hughes, Rob Spendlove, Charles De’Ath, Emma Amos, Ralph Brown, Rakie Ayola.
