Half the Picture #18 - PETER CAPALDI
Dec 5, 2025
In this lively conversation, Scottish actor and musician Peter Capaldi, famous for his roles as the Twelfth Doctor and Malcolm Tucker, reflects on his recent experiences, including a nerve-wracking performance at Glastonbury with Franz Ferdinand. He dives into his complex relationship with Doctor Who, discussing fame's responsibilities and the creative challenges he faced with long scripts. Capaldi also shares insights into his music career, revealing influences from iconic artists and teasing an upcoming tour. Expect humor and poignant moments as he revives Malcolm Tucker’s sharp wit!
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Unexpected Glastonbury Moment
- Peter Capaldi recounts being invited to sing 'Take Me Out' with Franz Ferdinand at Glastonbury and practicing the song nervously for months.
- He arrived two hours before the set, performed on the huge televised Pyramid Stage, and found the experience joyful and surprisingly calm.
Scarcity Fueled Creative Breadth
- Growing up in 1970s–80s Glasgow shaped Capaldi by forcing longer, exploratory routes to access art and culture, which broadened his influences.
- That scarcity bred a DIY, punk-era ethos where making posters, demos, and gigs was part of learning your craft.
Fan Love Versus Public Figure
- Capaldi says his imagination predated Doctor Who; the show fitted an existing love of the fantastical rather than creating it.
- Becoming the show's public face complicates and sometimes dilutes his private relationship with it.