David Tennant's father has revealed how he tried to persuade him not to become an actor.

 

The Broadchurch and Doctor Who star picked up a special recognition at the National Television Awards recently, and in an interview the Very Rev Sandy McDonald spoke of his pride in his career.

Mr McDonald, a former Moderator of the Church of Scotland General Assembly said: "Obviously I was delighted especially for David. For a relatively young man he has had a great career."

Tennant dedicated the prize to his 77-year-old father, a former minister of a church in Paisley.

The Rev McDonald added on the Church of Scotland website: "The event brought a great deal of joy. Friends from all over have been ringing since the broadcast.

"Some people I have not heard from for years have been in touch to say how delighted they were. It was good to talk to them. Some have been generous in their interest in the work I have done in the Church.

"David's mum and I tried to persuade him to do something in life that would be more permanent than acting, that would give him a longer career.

"The rector of his school wanted him to go to university to study English as he is a very good writer.

"But he was really keen to be an actor and he was accepted by the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, now called the Conservatoire, the first time he applied. I am a proud father."

Tennant, whose real name is David McDonald, picked up the award to the sound of The Proclaimers' famous track I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) and joked: "I am so glad I didn't get stuck in traffic," before saying: "I grew up loving the telly, so the fact that I get to make part of my living by being on the telly is something I have to pinch myself about.

"To get prizes for it just doesn't compute.

"I would like to dedicate this to my dad. He is an inspiration and a role model, so thanks Sandy."