STACK #250 August 2025

TV FEATURE

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GENRE: Sci-Fi RUN TIME: Series

NEW DOC ON THE BLOCK: DOCTOR WHO SEASON 1 With this new Doctor, we get a new Season 1 - although this latest series is officially the 14th… or the 40th, if we’re counting from the very beginning.

Gatwa’s take on the Doctor is distinctly fashion-forward, with the character breaking tradition by foregoing a single signature look in favour of a wardrobe full of outfits. On assuming the role, he told the press: "This role and show mean so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care. I will endeavour my utmost to do the same." Whether you’re a lifelong fan adding to your ever-growing collection or a newcomer using this series as your entry point, Doctor Who: Season 1 is finally here to own. So make some room - the new Doctor has arrived! Glenn Cochrane

• Doctor Who: Season 1 is out Aug 13

Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson

T hat might sound confusing to most, but not to Whovians - the most loyal of fans - who know the Doctor Who lore inside and out, all the way back to its 1963 debut. Now we’re at the 15th incarnation of the Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa ( Sex Education, Barbie ). When Jodie Whittaker stepped away from the role, the BBC sought an international streaming partnership in the hope of propelling the good Doctor to an even wider global audience (an odd notion, given it was already a globally recognised brand). Nevertheless, they found an ally in Disney+, who helped elevate the production values and introduce new themes.

And that explains the “Season 1” branding. Now on a new platform, the series is bigger than before, aiming for a broader - and younger - audience. Distinguishing itself from previous seasons, the new Doctor Who embraces the classic monster-of-the-week format, offering viewers something fresh in every episode. The show also marks

the return of former showrunner Russell T Davies, who created the Doctor Who spin-offs Torchwood (2006–2011) and The Sarah Jane Adventures (2007–2011).

OTHER RECENT DOCTOR WHO RELEASES:

Doctor Who: The War Games, Doctor Who: The Savages, Doctor Who: The Underwater Menace, Doctor Who: 60th Anniversary Specials

34 AUGUST 2025

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