Five Compelling Reasons to Watch Doctor Who

A Timeless Classic with a Rich History

Doctor Who first aired in the UK in 1963 and quickly became a staple of British television. The show originally ran for 26 years before being revived in 2005, not 2007, and has continued to capture the imaginations of viewers ever since. The Doctor, a Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey, travels through time and space in the TARDIS, a ship that looks like a British police box on the outside but is much larger on the inside. The Doctor's ability to regenerate into a new form has allowed the show to reinvent itself with each new actor who takes on the role.

Iconic Theme Song

One of the most recognizable aspects of Doctor Who is its eerie and innovative theme song. Composed by Ron Grainer and realized by Delia Derbyshire at the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, the theme was one of the first television themes to be created and produced entirely with electronic music. The process was painstaking, taking several weeks to complete, but the result was a haunting melody that has become synonymous with the show.

The Dalek Phenomenon

The Daleks, the Doctor's most famous adversaries, have become cultural icons in their own right. Introduced in the 1960s, these robotic mutants terrified and fascinated viewers, especially children. The Daleks' popularity led to a range of merchandise, including toys, comics, and even songs like "I'm Gonna Spend My Christmas With A Dalek" by the Go-Go's. Their catchphrase, "Exterminate!", has become a part of popular culture.

Contributions to the English Language

Doctor Who has made significant contributions to the English language. The word "Dalek" was the first to be added to the dictionary, used to describe a type of monster. The TARDIS, the Doctor's time machine, also entered the lexicon, referring to something that is bigger on the inside than it appears on the outside. Perhaps the most impactful contribution is the prefix "cyber," popularized by the show's Cybermen, which has since been used in various technological contexts.

A Show for All Ages

While Doctor Who was initially created for children, its complex storylines and moral dilemmas have attracted a broad audience, including adults. The show's depiction of violence and gore has been a point of contention, with some moral campaigners arguing that it is not suitable for younger viewers. However, its smart writing and engaging plots have made it a favorite among both boys and girls, as well as adults.

Influence on the Sci-Fi Genre

Doctor Who has had a profound impact on the science fiction genre, particularly in the UK. The show's early producers had to work with limited budgets, which led to some incredibly creative special effects and set designs. This ingenuity has inspired countless other sci-fi shows and movies. The show's influence can be seen in everything from the visual style of other series to the way they handle complex, time-traveling narratives.

Interesting Stats

• Longevity: Doctor Who is the longest-running science fiction TV series in the world, according to the Guinness World Records.
• Viewership: The show's 50th-anniversary special, "The Day of the Doctor," was watched by 12.8 million viewers in the UK alone and was simulcast in 94 countries.
• Merchandise: Doctor Who has generated over £1 billion in merchandise sales, making it one of the most lucrative franchises in television history.

Conclusion

Doctor Who is more than just a TV show; it's a cultural institution that has influenced generations of viewers and creators. Whether you're drawn in by its rich history, iconic villains, or its contributions to the English language, there's something for everyone in the world of Doctor Who. So why not give it a watch and see what all the fuss is about?

For more information on the show's history and impact, you can visit BBC's official Doctor Who page and Guinness World Records.

Sources:

1. BBC - Doctor Who
2. Guinness World Records - Longest Running Science Fiction TV Series
3. The Guardian - Doctor Who 50th Anniversary