Ex-Doctor Who Writer Predicts Gloomy Future for Iconic Series

Former Doctor Who writer Robert Shearman has expressed his concerns about the iconic show’s future. In a recent interview with Doctor Who Magazine, Shearman described his fluctuating feelings towards the series, currently leaning toward pessimism.

Shearman’s Predictions for Doctor Who

Shearman remarked on the show’s status, stating, “At the moment I’m in a ‘pull’ phase. It’s weird because the show is probably as dead as we’ve ever known it.” He reflected on the show’s history, contrasting its earlier days with the present situation, noting a shift in perceptions.

The Current Doctor Who Landscape

• Post-1989, the show consistently featured a current Doctor.
• Presently, any upcoming Doctor Who productions may feel outdated.
• Shearman highlighted the “full stop” of the narrative in the episode “The Reality War.”

Best known for writing the acclaimed 2005 episode “Dalek,” which featured Christopher Eccleston and Billie Piper, Shearman weighed in on recent developments regarding the series, including the controversial Season 15 finale that saw Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor regenerate into Rose Tyler, played by Billie Piper.

Community Response and Speculation

This bold narrative decision has fueled discussions among fans and former Doctor Who actors. Colin Baker, who played the Sixth Doctor, openly questioned the validity of Piper potentially becoming the next Doctor, calling it “a load of old malarky.”

In September, showrunner Russell T Davies indicated that the future of Doctor Who would be addressed after Season 2 airs. The anticipation surrounding these decisions has led to considerable speculation about the show’s direction.

What Lies Ahead for Doctor Who?

• The BBC confirmed that decisions regarding Season 3 will follow the airing of Season 2.
• A deal with Disney Plus includes 26 episodes, teasing more content on the horizon.
• A new spin-off titled “The War Between the Land and the Sea” will debut next year.

The spin-off focuses on the Unified Intelligence Taskforce (UNIT) confronting a global crisis without the Doctor’s presence. The BBC’s synopsis promises a tense narrative involving humanity’s struggle against an ancient species surfacing from the ocean.

As Doctor Who fans await the future of the series, Shearman’s reflections reveal a complex tapestry of nostalgia, apprehension, and hope for what lies ahead.