William Henry Hartnell (8 January 1908 – 23 April 1975) was an English actor. Hartnell played the first incarnation of the Doctor in "Doctor Who", from 1963 to 1966. He was also well known for his roles as Sergeant Grimshaw, the title character of the first "Carry On" film, "Carry On Sergeant" in 1958, and as Company Sergeant Major Percy Bullimore in the sitcom "The Army Game" from 1957 until 1958, and again in 1960.

Hartnell's performance in "This Sporting Life" was noted by Verity Lambert, the producer who was setting up a new science-fiction television series for the BBC entitled "Doctor Who"; mainly on the strength of that performance, Lambert offered him the title role. Although Hartnell was initially uncertain about accepting a part in what was pitched to him as a children's series, in part due to his success in films, Lambert and director Waris Hussein convinced him to take the part, and it became the character for which he gained the highest profile and is now most remembered.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org