Frazer Hines (born 22 September 1944 in Horsforth, West Riding of Yorkshire) is an English actor whose career has spanned television, theatre and audio work. He is most widely recognised for two long-running parts: Jamie McCrimmon, the Highland companion to the Second Doctor in the original Doctor Who series, and Joe Sugden in the rural soap Emmerdale. His output in the 1960s and 1970s made him a familiar face to British viewers and a regular presence at fan conventions.
Early life and stage beginnings
Hines began acting at a young age and established himself in stage and television roles before his breakthrough on science fiction. Early training and successive small parts prepared him for more prominent casting; biographical and career summaries can be found in many profiles and interviews for context and chronology. For an overview of his credits and early career, see a standard actor profile here.
Doctor Who and the role of Jamie
Hines created Jamie McCrimmon, a tartan-clad Scottish piper from the 18th century, who travelled with Patrick Troughton's Second Doctor. Jamie became one of the most enduring companions of the classic series, appearing across many stories. Hines is credited with 117 episodes of the original run of Doctor Who, a total surpassed only by the first four actors to play the Doctor. His portrayal combined loyalty, bravery and humour, and it remains a touchstone for discussions of companion characters. More on his Doctor Who work is available through fan and reference pages here.
Emmerdale and television career
After his science fiction fame, Hines took on the role of Joe Sugden in the long-running soap Emmerdale, a part for which he is also widely remembered. The role brought him continuing visibility on British television and demonstrated his range in serial drama. His television career has included both recurring parts and guest appearances; readers can consult a television credits list here.
Later work, audio projects and public appearances
Beyond screen roles, Hines has worked in theatre, recorded audio dramas and participated in genre conventions and fan events. He has been involved in projects that revisit or celebrate classic British television, and he remains active in appearances that engage long-term viewers and Doctor Who fans. Information about recent projects and engagements is often compiled in contemporary listings and interviews here.
Legacy and notes
Hines is regarded as one of the memorable companions of Doctor Who and as a longstanding presence in British television drama. Key points about his career include:
- Noted for the role of Jamie McCrimmon in Doctor Who and for Joe Sugden in Emmerdale.
- Appeared in 117 episodes of the original Doctor Who, a figure exceeded only by the first four Doctors.
- Has sustained a varied career across stage, screen and audio, and maintains a profile among classic television enthusiasts.
For additional background, interviews and selected filmography, consult reference entries and dedicated fan resources that collect his work and reminiscences here.