10 Behind The Scenes Reasons For Doctor Who Characters' Quirks

When the character of Peri Brown was formulated by producer John Nathan-Turner, he wanted specifically an American companion to attract further audiences from overseas. A similar mandate was made for Tegan Jovanka in a vein attempt to lure in figures from Australia, whilst also hoping for possible deals for filming abroad.

If you've heard Nicola Bryant speak off set then you'll be aware that she's clearly not American. Nevertheless her agent nudged her into going for a audition regardless, donning an American accent in a desperate attempt to snag the role. Sure enough she got the part. This, to even Bryant's surprise, was a confusing moment. How did she manage to get the role above actual American actresses?

The biggest worry now was Bryant wasn't American and this would quickly be realised. Instead of trying to lie to the production team she decided to come clean. Surprisingly this didn't result in her being fired, nor did it alter the producer's plans to push forward with an American companion. Instead Bryant's acting impressed him further due to her fooling him into believing she was actually American and went along with the lie, to the point where he told the press that Nicola was indeed American.

Then there was the weird obsession of having Peri wear skimpy outfits to deliver a sex appeal to Doctor Who, but luckily this didn't last and Bryant was allowed to wear normal clothing for her final season on the show.