Why Christopher Eccleston’s Doctor Is Underrated
In 2005, sci-fi fans were delighted by the return of time-traveling phone box dweller Doctor Who to Saturday night television. Originally airing from 1963 to 1989, Doctor Who became an iconic figure in science fiction. An alien with the ability to time-travel, fight alien invaders and regenerate to a new body and personality when mortally injured is not only interesting to watch, it's an ingenious way to keep the show going indefinitely.
For the 2005 revival, Christopher Eccleston was cast as the Ninth Doctor, taking the torch from Eighth Doctor Paul McGann. Known for his dramatic performances and regarded by many as one of the UKs' best actors, the casting of Eccleston was a surprise for many. People worried that the fun of the show could be lost. However, the show was a huge success. Eccleston created a nuanced version of The Doctor that held the attention of the nation, pleasing existing fans and creating legions of new ones. Eccleston's tenure only lasted one brief season before David Tennant took over the role, but it is important not to discount the effect his performance had on the series.
RELATED: Doctor Who: What Russell T. Davies' Return Could Mean For The Series
When the first episode of the Doctor Who revival aired on March 26th, 2005, audiences weren't sure what to expect. Would the Ninth Doctor be a more serious incarnation like the original Doctor, William Hartnell? Would viewers see his regeneration from Paul McGann to Christopher Eccleston? Most importantly, what will his sonic screwdriver look like?
The first time Eccleston's Doctor appears onscreen is when he saves future companion Rose Tyler (Billie Piper) from animated mannequins in the basement of the department store where she works. He then promptly
Read more on gamerant.com
