The перезапуск of Doctor Who in 2005 brought with it a wave of fresh enthusiasm, and for many, the Doctors that followed – from Christopher Eccleston to Matt Smith – were a golden age. While Peter Capaldi had his moments, a shift in showrunning led to a period that divided fans: the era of Chris Chibnall and the Thirteenth Doctor, played by Jodie Whittaker. However, to lay the blame for this era’s shortcomings at Whittaker’s feet is a disservice to a talented actress who consistently shone, even when the writing faltered.
Jodie Whittaker as the Doctor
Jodie Whittaker stepped into the TARDIS as the first female Doctor, a moment of significant cultural impact. The weight of expectation was immense, and from the outset, Whittaker embraced the role with an infectious energy and warmth. Her portrayal was distinct, bringing a vulnerability and earnestness that resonated. She captured the Doctor’s inherent compassion and curiosity, offering a performance that was both fresh and true to the spirit of the character. Despite facing scripts that often lacked focus and storylines that became overly complex, Whittaker’s commitment never wavered. She delivered every line with conviction, injecting life into even the most convoluted narratives.
The issues that plagued the Chibnall era were multifaceted, but they largely stemmed from the writing and overall direction. Storylines often felt overstuffed, introducing numerous companions and complex arcs that struggled to land effectively. The pacing could be erratic, and at times, the core essence of Doctor Who – its blend of adventure, heart, and wit – seemed diluted. While every Doctor era has its highs and lows, there was a noticeable inconsistency during Whittaker’s tenure that impacted the overall viewing experience for many fans. It’s crucial to differentiate between the quality of the writing and the quality of Whittaker’s acting. She consistently gave a strong performance, navigating the challenges presented by the material with grace and professionalism.
Interestingly, Jodie Whittaker herself remained blissfully unaware of much of the online criticism directed at the show during her time. In an interview with The Independent, she revealed a conscious decision to avoid platforms like Twitter, stating, “No one’s told me they’ve hated me… I’m sure if I was on Twitter, I’d have a very different version. But I’m not. So I go ‘la la la!’” This detachment allowed her to focus on the positive aspects of her experience, which she described as her “happiest time.” She emphasized the opportunities the show provided and the welcoming nature of the Doctor Who fandom, expressing genuine affection for the show and the impact it holds for so many. Her words highlight a positive and resilient attitude, a stark contrast to the negativity sometimes surrounding her era.
Looking ahead, fans are eagerly anticipating the arrival of Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor, a casting choice that has generated considerable excitement. While the future of Doctor Who looks bright, it’s important to remember and appreciate Jodie Whittaker’s contribution to the show’s legacy. Before her groundbreaking role in Doctor Who, Whittaker was known for her powerful performances in dramas like Toxic Town, her upcoming series focusing on a compelling real-world issue. This return to gritty, impactful storytelling showcases her range and commitment as an actress.
As the Doctor Who 60th Anniversary specials air, celebrating the show’s rich history, it’s a perfect time to reflect on all the Doctors and their eras. Jodie Whittaker’s time in the TARDIS may have been met with mixed reactions, but her individual performance as the Doctor deserves recognition and praise. She was a brilliant Doctor hampered by uneven writing, and ultimately, it wasn’t Jodie Whittaker’s fault. It was never Jodie Whittaker’s fault.
Source: Independent
