The Master was created by writer Terry Nation and first appeared as a villain in the British science fiction television series Doctor Who.
Roger Delgado became the first actor to portray The Master, establishing the character's iconic presence as the Doctor's nemesis.
Anthony Ainley became the third actor to portray The Master, bringing the character into the late 70s and 80s era of Doctor Who.
John Simm was cast as The Master in the revived Doctor Who series, bringing a modern and intense interpretation to the character.
Michelle Gomez was cast to play Missy, a female incarnation of The Master, marking a significant gender change in the character's appearances.