Elisabeth Sladen(1946-2011)

Tied with Nicholas Courtney for the record of appearing with 7 on-screen incarnations of the Doctor. Although she is best known as a companion with Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker, she appeared with all of the first five Doctors in The Five Doctors (1983). She later appeared with David Tennant and Matt Smith's Doctors in Doctor Who (2005) and The Sarah Jane Adventures (2007).

I sometimes think, 'If I knew what made Sarah Jane so popular, I'd bottle it'. I love her as a character, and I credit Barry (Barry Letts) for instilling something special in the character. He is a true gentle and honourable man and has such a wonderful take on life. I took some of that influence for Sarah. You also scavenge some of what you are as well. But I wish I was more like her.