Doctor Who is a show that’s been on the world’s collective mind since it first aired in 1963, and more recently because it has bucked a fifty-plus year trend: The Doctor is a man. Well, man no longer, as Jodie Whittaker will carry the mantle as the first female Doctor. The reaction to her casting was met with a similar reaction to any woman who replaces an iconic character, internet outrage a-la Ghostbusters. Those of us who aren’t neck-deep in outrage culture love the casting, including one of the most beloved Doctors himself, David Tennant.
On The Late Show with Stephen Colbert Tenant lauded his Broadchurch co-star’s acting ability and attitude, saying the controversy will be “irrelevant almost immediately once she takes the part,” since she’s going to win people over as soon as she’s onscreen. High praise from one of the best actors around. Tenant’s popularity skyrocketed after starring in Doctor Who, launching him to shows like Broadchurch, Jessica Jones, and the new Ducktales reboot. Hopefully the same thing happens to Whittaker.
In addition to Broadchurch, Whittaker starred alongside John Boyega in the 2011 film Attack the Block, which featured a group of teens defending their city block from aliens. Now Whittaker will be the alien, though hopefully not attacking teenagers.
For more of the women of Doctor Who be sure to check out a history of time ladies, the new adventures of the Doctor’s daughter Jenny, and Whittaker’s own take on the casting.
Want to get all timey-wimey with a female Doctor? Let us know in the comments below.
Image: BBC
