18. Death By Robot Clown (The Greatest Show In The Galaxy)
The wastes of Segonax was the final destination for travelling attraction the Psychic Circus. It's never explained why the circus is supposed to be so psychic as it turned out to be a front for a trio of bored Norse gods. Regardless, The Greatest Show in the Galaxy is one of the eeriest stories in the McCoy Doctor canon, showcasing many unusual deaths. Bellboy (Christopher Guard, in the yellow coat) is the mechanical wiz constructing the robot clowns who tirelessly tumble about the garish but deadly tent. Mentally broken by the various punishments received for attempting to escape, as well as the murder of his girlfriend via his own handiwork, he finally snaps during a confrontation with the Chief Clown (Ian Reddington - he's the one in the hat). Ordering his own clowns to turn on him, Bellboy is last seen in a swarm of strangling hands. His demise happens off-camera but the Chief Clown's unforgettable reaction, as he pulls a funny face to block out the madness, is one of the highlights of Stephen Wyatt's anniversary season closer.
I am a journalist and comedian who enjoys American movies of the 70s, Amicus horror compendiums, Doctor Who, Twin Peaks, Naomi Watts and sitting down. My short fiction has been published as part of the Iris Wildthyme range from Obverse Books.
