Dan
Starkey

The five hours spent in a makeup chair to become a Sontaran would be a deterrent for many, but for this performer, it was the gateway to a legacy. Dan Starkey is a British actor best known for Strax in Doctor Who, a role that transformed a warlike alien race into a source of deadpan comedy. He first appeared in the franchise as Commander Skorr in 2008 before being cast as Strax, who became a recurring member of the 'Paternoster Gang' alongside Neve McIntosh and Catrin Stewart. The character's popularity during the Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi eras ensures that Starkey remains a primary target for convention promoters globally.

Dan Starkey played Strax in Doctor Who from 2011 to 2014, and the series continues to run on the BBC and Disney+. This exposure created a definitive image of the Sontaran for a new generation of viewers. Beyond the heavy latex, Starkey has built a career based on versatility and technical skill. He has appeared in other notable genre productions such as Good Omens in 2019 and the dark comedy Inside No. 9 in 2014. These roles highlight his ability to work both in and out of creature suits, proving his range to audiences who might only know his voice or his prosthetic silhouette.

Fans who ask whether Dan Starkey still attends conventions will find an actor who is highly active on the professional circuit. He is a regular fixture at events like London Film and Comic Con and specialized Doctor Who gatherings such as Pandorica and Valiant. The fandom for the Paternoster Gang remains particularly vibrant, with many attendees appearing in full Victorian-alien cosplay. Starkey is known for his detailed answers during Q&A sessions, often discussing the technical challenges of acting through a full-head mask and the specific vocal techniques required for his characters.

What fans often discover is that Dan Starkey is a prolific character actor with a deep background in sketch comedy. He appeared as multiple characters in the series Class Dismissed between 2016 and 2023, showcasing a high-speed comedic range that contrasts with his more stoic sci-fi roles. This diversity makes him an ideal guest for broader family conventions as well as niche genre shows. His work in Wizards vs Aliens as Randal Moon further solidified his reputation as a reliable performer for high-concept television productions that require both physical presence and emotional depth.

The question of what Dan Starkey has done since his main Doctor Who run ended is answered by his steady presence in UK television and audio dramas. He continues to voice Sontaran characters for Big Finish Productions, keeping the character of Strax alive for the most dedicated segment of the fandom. In 2026, he is scheduled for major appearances at The Capitol and the Festival of the Timelords, indicating a continued high demand for his presence on stage. This longevity is a result of his willingness to embrace the 'creature' roles that others might avoid, turning them into fully realized, three-dimensional characters.

Meeting Dan Starkey in person offers fans a bridge between the man and the mask. Promoters who book him are securing a guest who understands the specific mechanics of fan engagement and the history of the franchises he represents. He provides a professional and charismatic presence that appeals to both the casual viewer and the hardcore collector. As Doctor Who enters new phases on global streaming platforms, the legacy of characters like Strax ensures that Starkey remains a relevant and sought-after figure in the international convention landscape.