‘Doctor Who’ is Back. Here’s What You Need to Know.
The science fiction programme from Britain is commemorating its 60th year milestone with a trio of specials that will highlight some well-known characters.
On November 24, 2023, at 8:05am Eastern Time.
Not many TV shows reach their 60th anniversary, and it's even less common for one to start a whole new era at that milestone.
The British science fiction series "Doctor Who" was first broadcast on the BBC in 1963. However, the show is currently going through a phase of growth. To commemorate its latest achievement, three upcoming specials will be released weekly on Disney+ in the United States starting from Saturday. This was made possible by a partnership between Disney+ and the BBC.
A fresh installment of the show, led by Ncuti Gatwa (known for his role in "Sex Education"), will be hitting Disney+ (and BBC in the UK) next year. Prior to this, an additional episode will be released on Christmas Day. Russell T Davies, the person behind the 2005 revival of the show, is in charge of the entire series.
The sci-fi series "Doctor Who" has been entertaining its fans for many years with its exciting adventures, menacing villains, and intricate plots. For those who are not yet familiar with the show, it is important to learn some background information before watching the upcoming episodes.
The individual known as the Doctor is a powerful being known as a Time Lord, hailing from a distant planet called Gallifrey. With his trusty Tardis, a craft that appears as an ordinary British police box, the Doctor travels through various points in time and space. His directive is to safeguard the planet Earth and all of its inhabitants from any perilous situations that may arise.
According to Toby Hadoke, an actor who hosts a podcast focused on the show, the Doctor is a brainy outsider who is knowledgeable but not necessarily athletic. However, the Doctor always manages to triumph in the end. The Doctor serves as a beacon of hope for those who may feel like they don't quite fit in.
David Tennant, known as the Doctor during 2005 and 2010, and returning as the lead for the 60th anniversary specials, expressed his view on the show's charm. He believes that the combination of ordinary life with surreal and bizarre aspects is what makes the show so appealing. In the Doctor Who universe, even the most exceptional events can be relatable to the audience.
The show has been able to last for a long time due to the Doctor's ability to "regenerate," which allows for a new actor to take on the role. However, the show also likes to try out different genres so that one season can have episodes that are either a historical drama or a contemporary political satire.
According to Davies, the showrunner, every time the Tardis door is opened and the crew emerges onto a new planet, time period, or narrative, the journey starts anew.
Typically, the Doctor journeys alongside an ordinary human friend, portrayed by the comedic actress Catherine Tate in the 60th anniversary episodes.
What's The Plot Status?
Towards the conclusion of the previous season, the Doctor's 13th manifestation, played by Jodie Whittaker, transformed into a new form.
In the past, it has been customary for a different actor to take on the role of each new incarnation of the Doctor. However, it has been announced that Gatwa will be portraying the character's 15th regeneration. Excitingly, for the upcoming 60th anniversary episodes, Whittaker will be stepping back into the shoes of Tennant, who was previously known as the 10th Doctor from 2005 until 2010. He also reprised the role for a special 50th anniversary episode in 2013.
Instead of playing the 10th Doctor again, Tennant will act as the 14th Doctor in the upcoming specials. This will be the first instance of an actor portraying two unique Doctors. (Is everyone following along?)
Davies encouraged by asking, "Who said it's impossible?" He firmly believes that it is achievable without any uncertainty.
Tate is set to play Donna Noble once again, who was the Doctor's companion. However, in their previous escapade in the year 2008, the Doctor erased Donna's memories - which included all their shared experiences. If Donna were to recollect their moments together, it would lead to her demise. Nonetheless, they will meet again in the forthcoming specials.
Davies stated that he had left the protagonists in a very sad situation, where they were separated permanently and could never experience happiness again. He thinks that such a scenario is calling out for a conclusive finale.
"Watching In The US: A Guide"
The show "Doctor Who" has been shown in the US for a while now, appearing on channels such as PBS, the Sci Fi Channel, and BBC America. However, the show's recent deal with Disney+ for international distribution could make it easier for people who aren't diehard fans to watch. To ease in new viewers, the 60th anniversary specials will start with a summary of the Doctor and Donna's story.
If you want to explore more of the previous "Doctor Who" episodes, you can stream them on Max or BritBox in the United States. These are older installments that will allow you to delve into the past of this popular TV show.
"Sci-Fi Show For All"
“Doctor Who" has always stood out from other science fiction series when it comes to including a diverse range of characters on screen. Jodie Whittaker made television history by becoming the first woman to portray the Doctor in 2017, while Jo Martin took on the role of the Fugitive Doctor in 2020, marking the show’s first Black Doctor. Additionally, Yasmin Finney, a transgender actress known for playing Elle in the popular Netflix series "Heartstopper," has recently been added to the cast.”
Tennant stated that the show has constantly displayed a strong commitment towards embracing diversity and valuing individuality. He reflected on his own personal experiences of being a slim guy who wore glasses and resided in Scotland. He felt that he wasn't viewed as the most stylish individual among his peers.
However, according to him, the Doctor glorifies being uncool. This was a characteristic that I found to be quite admirable.
