Gareth Thomas

Gareth Daniel Thomas (12 February 1945 – 13 April 2016) was a distinguished Welsh actor celebrated for his captivating performances on both television and in audio dramas. He gained prominence for his portrayal of Roj Blake in the iconic BBC science fiction series Blake's 7, a role that solidified his status in the genre. His diverse career also included memorable performances as Shem in the ITV series Star Maidens and Adam Brake in the fantasy show Children of the Stones.

Between 1999 and 2005, Thomas showcased his comedic talents in MJTV's audio comedy series Soldiers of Love, where he played the flamboyant Welsh host Hywel Hammond as well as the antagonist Aaron Arkenstein, participating in 12 out of the 14 episodes. In 2001, he lent his voice to Storm Warning, an audio drama from the Doctor Who universe produced by Big Finish Productions, and he later portrayed the character Kalendorf in the Dalek Empire series.

His connection to the Doctor Who franchise continued when he guest-starred in the Torchwood episode "Ghost Machine" in 2006. In 2012, Thomas reprised his role as Roj Blake for Big Finish's Blake's 7: The Liberator Chronicles, contributing to stories set in the early series. In 2013, he took on the role of Brother Cadfael in Middle Ground Theatre's adaptation of Ellis Peters' The Virgin in the Ice. Thomas passed away from heart failure on 13 April 2016, leaving behind a rich legacy in the performing arts at the age of 71.