First broadcast: 2004
Stars: Martin Clunes, Caroline Catz, Stewart Wright, Ian McNeice, Joe Absolom
Creator: Dominic Minghella
The lowdown: Martin Clunes is Dr Martin Ellingham, a highly efficient and dedicated GP. The trouble is that he is also grumpy, rude and had no bedside manner. His career as a surgeon was cut short when he developed a fear of blood. That secret is known only by a few. Can he grow to love Portwenn, the beautiful moorland around it and the village’s 996 contrary inhabitants?
Memorable moments: Dr Ellingham walks into the patients’ waiting room and declares “Is there anyone here who has a genuine medical problem?” In another toe-curling incident he tells school teacher Louisa Glasson (Caroline Catz) that her dental hygiene regime is not up to scratch. His brutally honest remark is made just as it looked like they would get together as a couple.
Trivia: Dominic Minghella is brother of Oscar-winning director Anthony Minghella, whose movies include The English Patient.
Former EastEnder Joe Absolom loves appearing in Doc Martin because he can indulge his passion for golf on the local Cornish courses.
Drama: Doc Martin interviews and episode guides
