Josephine "Jo" Grant, later Jo Jones, is a fictional character played by Katy Manning in the long-running British science fiction television series Doctor Who. Jo was introduced by Barry Letts and Terrance Dicks in the first episode of Doctor Who's eighth season (1971) as a new companion of series protagonist the Doctor, in his third incarnation. After the Doctor's previous companion Liz Shaw, a scientist and intellectual, the production team looked to introduce a less experienced companion to act as an audience surrogate. Jo appeared in 15 stories.
Promotional image of Jo Grant, as portrayed by Katy Manning on Doctor Who
Jon Pertwee reportedly identified Katy Manning (pictured) as the "perfect actress" for the role.
Catherine Ann "Katy" Manning is a British actress. Although she has made many appearances on both screen and stage, Manning is best known for her part as the companion Jo Grant in the BBC science fiction television series Doctor Who. Manning initially played the role regularly from 1971 to 1973 but also reprised the role in the Doctor Who spin-off The Sarah Jane Adventures in 2010. She is also well known for voicing Iris Wildthyme in the audio series Iris Wildthyme for Big Finish Productions since 2005.
Manning at The Television & Movie Store, Norwich, England, 17 January 2009
Sophie Aldred, Louise Jameson and Manning at the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary Celebration Weekend in 2013
