Not to be confused with Richard Franklin (director), the Australian born film director. Richard K. Franklin (born 15 January 1936) is an English actor, writer, and director. He has appeared as a regular character in several high profile British television programmes, including Crossroads, Emmerdale Farm, and most notably in the BBC science fiction television series Doctor Who, in which he portrayed Captain Mike Yates of UNIT. Franklin initially played the part from 1971 until 1974, but has returned to the role on a number of occasions both on television and in Doctor Who spin-off media.