Doctor Who has delighted me since the original transmission of The Sontaran Experiment in 1975. I guess some folks might find this bizarre, but it is literally my earliest memory. There isn’t an era that I haven’t loved though, of course, I do have my favourites (Pertwee, Tom Baker, Tennant; 10 and 14). Currently loving the first series with Ncuti as the 15th Doctor.
One of the things that gives me great joy is discovering new angles or elements to enjoy about DW stories. It’s always wonderful when I’m able to find something that gives me more joy for episodes that I’ve been less fond of. Equally, I love championing epsiodes to others and helping them discover something new or re-evaluate.
Why “realdoctor”? That’s what my kids called me when they were little, on account of a (very superficial) resemblance to Christopher Eccleston and the fact that I’m a research scientist.
Wow! A real doctor who’s been around since the golden days! You are what we younger fans consider Doctor Who fan royalty! A royal welcome to you and feel free to share your wisdom and opinions with the rest of us!
Welcome! One of the things I love most about this forum is hearing why people love stories I can’t stand, and sharing love for ones I love too - we have that kind of conversation all the time here and it’s brilliant. Can’t wait to see you around!
Thanks for the welcome. Much appreciated! It’s nice to be here and I get a sense that this may be a little more positive than some other forums. I’m happy to be critical, provided it’s constructive but I get so down when I read the hate and negativity that some seem to peddle. Hoping that this place will be a little different.
Oh, I can assure you that it is! We’ve had plenty of discussions about various topics and we haven’t always agreed on things, yet we’ve always stayed very civil. That is why this is a safe space for all!
Thank you! Yes, it’s always lovely to find something to eke a little bit more joy out of something like DW. I don’t love every story (and there are a handful I find actively difficult - but it really is JUST a handful). If I can persuade a few more people to enjoy stories I love, then great! If not, well I have fun reflecting and putting together my thoughts.
Please rest assured that you won’t find me to be one of those “fans” who elevates the classic era and disparages 2005+. I genuinely love it all! As a neuro-atypical person (and I know I’m far from the only one in DW fandom), I find change difficult… but never in this show. That’s the thing. DW has always been a bit of a beacon for me, since childhood. It inspired me to become a scientist and to develop a passion for communication. It encouraged me that it was OK to be different and that my differences were often very positive. It taught me to be progressive and open minded. It still does to this day.
It always makes me pleased to hear that Doctor Who has had a positive impact on someone’s life! And you’re quite right about the things that the show has always stood for and always will. People often claim that Doctor Who fans struggle to embrace change, a paradox given the show’s inherent commitment to it. So it’s wonderful to come across fans who prove to be an exception to the rule.
I find something to love and something to dislike in every Who era, both fan-favourite eras and less fan-favourite eras. That’s how it is with 60+ years of stories!
Exactly my thoughts! I have a particular fondness for the oft maligned Graham Williams years. Whilst I appreciate the production issues were frequently not so strong during the era, the invention was fantastic during seasons 15, 16 and 17. Indeed, I see a strong familial link between the creativity and diversity of that era and RTD (both RTD1 and RTD2). Whilst there are many differences, the DNA in approach seems very very similar to me.
Thank you! Good to be here. Enjoying the quality of the site and the (so far) MUCH more positive and constructive vibe that is here. Hats off to all concerned! It feels like I’ve found the right place to share my thoughts and love of this show.
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