The return of “The Doctor Show” has sparked a whirlwind of reactions, a testament to its enduring legacy. For every corner of the internet echoing with critique, there’s an equal measure of excitement, and for this long-time fan, that excitement is entirely justified. Having watched “Rose,” the inaugural episode of the revitalized BBC series, the thrill is palpable. While some die-hard Whovians express reservations, perhaps clinging to the echoes of Doctors past, this perspective comes from someone who once lived and breathed the very essence of Doctor Who. From a childhood subscription to Doctor Who Magazine to a cherished autograph from Tom Baker himself (a treasured memento!), and even sporting an impossibly long knitted scarf courtesy of a loving grandmother, the connection runs deep. Mention Roger Delgado, or the Holiday to Traken, and you’re speaking my language.
The Timeless Magic of Discovering ‘The Doctor Show’
Rewinding to 1984, an eight-year-old me, nestled in the late Arizona night, encountered “the doctor show” for the first time on a small black and white television. It wasn’t just a program; it was a portal. Suddenly, I was no longer in Arizona, but transported to realms unknown, a feeling akin to Peter Pan’s flight to Neverland. Anyone who encountered Doctor Who in their formative years understands this potent magic, this vivid reality where you stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the Doctor and his companions, embarking on impossible adventures.
Growing Up, But Never Really Leaving ‘The Doctor Show’ Behind
As life inevitably does, adolescence ushered in new priorities. While the allure of companions like Perpugilliam Brown remained, Saturday nights began to beckon with real-world adventures, diverting attention from the TARDIS. Though figures like Sylvester McCoy and Sophie Aldred held a certain intrigue, the intense childhood obsession began to wane, much like Puff the Magic Dragon and his growing-up companion.
‘Rose’: A Triumph for the Modern ‘Doctor Show’
Approaching “Rose,” I consciously donned two hats: that of the hyper-critical former fanatic and the adult yearning to recapture that long-lost wonder. Happily, the show triumphs in rekindling that magic. A smile stretched across my face throughout the entire 45 minutes. If first impressions hold true, this iteration of “the doctor show” is poised to captivate a new generation of young minds. While Doctor Who once felt like a personal treasure, there’s a genuine joy in anticipating sharing him with the audience he was always meant for. So, thank you, Russell T Davies, and a resounding welcome back to “the doctor show”!
