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Former Doctors reflect on Doctor Who evolution and backlash

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Former Doctors reflect on Doctor Who evolution and backlash
Key Points
  • Peter Capaldi said Doctor Who has become too big and important for the BBC.
  • Jodie Whittaker faced sexist backlash as the first female Doctor.
  • Ncuti Gatwa's run was criticized as 'woke' and he said the role took a toll on him.

Peter Capaldi, who played the Twelfth Doctor from 2014 to 2017, said Doctor Who reflects its times and is a good thing in the world, though it has become too big and too important for the BBC. He recalled that when he was a child, the show was just a monster show in the corner of the room. According to Metro, Capaldi described the show as having become a victim of its own success, noting it was never like that when he loved it.

Jodie Whittaker, the first female Doctor, faced sexist backlash and was frequently compared to her male predecessors, according to multiple reports. According to The Independent, Whittaker said she never wanted to be well known and expressed pride in being the first woman to play the role, though she felt it should have happened earlier. Ncuti Gatwa, the first Black Doctor, faced regular criticism of his run as being 'woke', according to major media. Gatwa said the role took a toll on his body mentally and physically, but he would never say never to returning to the show.

I’m getting old, and my body was tired… and I’ve now just started doing some ballet, so I’m making really great decisions.

Ncuti Gatwa, Former Doctor Who actor

It’s the most amazing job in the world, a job that any actor would dream of and – because it’s so good – it’s strenuous. It takes a lot out of you, physically, emotionally, mentally, and so it was time.

Ncuti Gatwa, Former Doctor Who actor

Never say never.

Ncuti Gatwa, Former Doctor Who actor
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Former Doctors reflect on Doctor Who evolution and backlash | Reed News