His portrayal of Villa in Blake’s 7 was and remains a huge influence on my writing. Of course most notably when I write Caleb Scudder in the SURVIVE THE UNIVERSE books (the character was always intended to be Villa mixed with the spirit of certain kids I went to school with). However I also think there’s shades of Keating’s very British style of downtrodden and weary humorous delivery in BITE BACK! too.
Either way it’s always a delight to watch him try to duck and dodge, outwit and wrangle his way out of anything that looks like danger or (even worse) hard work. It’s also a delight to draw inspiration from his performances, there’s a bit of business with Caleb Scudder in the upcoming NINETEEN AND FAR FROM VASTRID that’s wholesale me channeling Villa. And I make no apologies for it, I welcome the opportunity for his legacy to live on and only hope my use of the inspiration serves as a worthy tribute.
“I plan to live forever… or die trying.”
Phoenix Phil Morley - author 