Hot off the heels of this weekend's finale of Doctor Who series three, the BBC has announced a guest star for the upcoming Christmas special and a new companion for the Doctor.  Singer Kylie Minogue will join the Doctor in "The Voyage of the Damned."  Rumors have been swirling for months that Minogue had been approached to appear on the show, and TPTB are very excited to have her there.

"This will be the most ambitious and best Christmas episode yet," said Executive Producer Russell T. Davies.

In other Who news, comedienne Catherine Tate has signed on to be the Doctor's companion for the thirteen episodes of series four.  Tate previously appeared as Donna in "The Runaway Bride," at the end of which, the Doctor invited her along for the ride.  At the time, the character declined, but it looks like she'll be changing her mind.  Martha Jones, the Doctor's most recent companion, will do a three-episode stint over on spin-off Torchwood before returning to the TARDIS.

 (image courtesy of BBC)

Fred Saberhagen, author of the "Berserker" series, died Friday at his home in Albuquerque at the age of 77. He is survived by his wife, Joan Spicci. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to any of the following: Doctors without Borders. Catholic Relief, SFWA Emergency Medical Fund, John 23rd Catholic Church in Albuquerque.

Saberhagen was born and raised in Chicago.  He wrote science fiction novels for over forty years.  He was best known for his Dracula stories and his series featuring the Berserkers, an alien race bent on the destruction of all life.

The date of the memorial service will be announced later this year.