Doctor Who Showrunner Explains Companions’ Definitive Exits In The Series

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Summary

  • Doctor Who companions’ exits are pivotal moments that evoke intense emotions and highlight personal growth.
  • One showrunner explained the significance of writing off companions with poignant departures.
  • The departure of Joy in the Christmas special was crafted to capture bittersweet sentimentality and hope.

In the series “Doctor Who,” the doctors typically have companions. These companions exit the show in unique ways, and these departures often make a lasting impact on viewers. One of the producers shared insights as to why this method was chosen.

The British science fiction series known as “Doctor Who,” which first aired in 1963, boasts an impressive six-decade run and continues airing new seasons today. Each season, the Doctor may travel alone or with multiple companions. The departures of each companion are meticulously written to showcase their personal development and the profound influence of traveling with the Doctor. This results in poignant moments that can be both heartwarming and heart-rending, stirring deep emotions of sorrow or anticipation among fans. A series producer explained the reasoning behind these departures.

Showrunner Steven Moffat shared insights on why companions leave the Doctor Who series, following Nicola Coughlan’s character, Joy, departing in the 2024 Christmas special. The ending of Coughlan’s storyline sparked diverse reactions among fans. To explain their approach to companion exits, Moffat said that in the modern series, they usually establish a reason for the companions no longer accompanying The Doctor, just as Russell T Davies did. In contrast to the old series, where characters would simply say “I’m not going to travel with you,” they now try to explain why they are no longer visiting. This way, there is a meaningful rationale behind their separation, as if they are parting ways.

In the episode titled “Joy to the World”, Joy embodies her name’s optimism and cherished the holiday season until her mother passed away in a hospital during Christmas, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This event significantly altered her feelings towards the festive period. However, in the Christmas special, Joy is entwined in the “star seed” storyline, transforming into a star above Bethlehem, much like the traditional biblical account of Jesus Christ’s birth. This transformation, however, came with a risk as it meant Joy could perish. Showrunner Steven Moffat explained that this dramatic ending was chosen to best suit Joy’s character development. He further elaborated, “Initially, I intended to detonate the suitcase over Bethlehem. But then I realized that Joy transitioning from a woman who avoids Christmas to the star that initiates Christmas would make for an incredibly poignant story.” Moffat added that Joy’s transformation into a star served as a beautiful representation of the boundless love within her character. “Instead of going out with a bang, she shines, she shines,” he concluded.

In the 2024 Christmas special, Joy’s tale is a memorable one that lingers due to its profound impact. It embodies the signature style of the series with its bittersweet narrative and more. Joy, a delightful character, was skillfully written into a moving and engaging narrative. She embodied the enchantment and charm of Christmas through her radiant warmth and optimism. Her faith shone bright amidst cosmic darkness, resonating deeply with viewers. As Joy transforms into a real star to save the universe, it’s both heart-wrenching and inspiring. It perfectly balances sentimentality, powerful storytelling, and hope. The showrunner did an exceptional job as Joy’s departure tugged at viewers’ heartstrings.

Doctor Who streams on Disney Plus.

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2025-01-13 17:03