By, Heather Maloney
Though many different franchises bid for the devout following of fandom, it is becoming more apparent that there is one constant between a majority of the programs. Mark Sheppard is an actor of television and screen, however one does not realize how many fan favorites he has appeared in. With his trademark raspy voice, quit wit and wicked smile he has become the ‘go to guy’ for villains and heroes alike. During his amazing career he has starred in multiple television shows including “Doctor Who”, “Warehouse 13”, “The X-Files”, “Chuck”, “Dollhouse”, “Battlestar Galactica”, “Bionic Woman”, “24”, “Firefly”, “Charmed”, “Sliders”, “Supernatural” and “Star Trek: Voyager”. While one could talk at length about many of the characters he has brought to life, this article will focus on three of his amazing performances proving that Mark Sheppard is becoming the Prince of Fandom.
Crowley – “Supernatural”
Who can be more evil than the King of Hell? Even though he is extremely evil, surprisingly Mark Sheppard’s betrayal of Crowley is a recurring fan favorite and the viewer understands and sometimes agrees with his motives. Whether he is siding with or against the Winchester brothers, Crowley takes whatever steps are necessary to progress his own agenda. From helping a fallen angel to open purgatory to assisting the brothers to defeat the leviathans that were released, Crowley’s ultimate goal is the protection of Demons and to raise the number of souls in Hell. When he appears on the screen one knows that it is going to be a great episode and to keep a close eye on the devilishly amazing Crowley.
Canton Delaware III – “Doctor Who”
Not only did Sheppard get to travel in the TARDIS, he got to utter “Doctor Who?” and “It’s bigger on the inside!” As an edgy FBI agent in the late 1960’s, Canton is a trusted member of the government even though he has been ousted from the agency due to his sexual preference. The Doctor, Amy, Rory and River also learn to trust Canton and he becomes such a close confidant to the Doctor that he is one of the few invited to his funeral. Not only did Mark Sheppard appear in “Doctor Who”, he has also become the voice of “Doctor Who” and other programs on BBC America.
Romo Lampkin – “Battlestar Galactica”
The performances given during the run of this intimate Sci-Fi adventure helped to make “Battlestar Galactica” a fan and critic favorite. During one of the darkest points of the show, Romo Lampkin appears to defend the indefensible Gaius Baltar. As a mysterious attorney, Lampkin brought logic and cunning to an out of control situation. Mark Sheppard’s performance is both haunting and breathtaking as he makes an everlasting impression during his limited appearance.
It is not only his performances that has made Mark Sheppard so important to today’s television, it is also the fact that he is a fan himself. As a frequent guest of Conventions throughout the world, Mark Sheppard is both approachable and genuine. He will be appearing at the upcoming Gallifrey One convention in Los Angeles this February.
The Geek Port 