It’s Christmas time again, and that can only mean that the BBC will be airing a Doctor Who Christmas special—as they have in one form or another since the very first Doctor. From the whimsical days of the First Doctor to the dynamic energy of the latest, these festive adventures also showcase the national pride sewn into the fabric of the beloved series. Christmas has been a central theme in showing audiences the humanity at the core of the lively Time Lord’s worldview, so let’s see the merriest moments in Who-history!
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#5 “A Christmas Carol” (Eleventh Doctor, 2010): Rewriting the Past for the Sake of Family and Humanity
- This episode puts a sci-fi twist on a classic tale, emphasizing the Doctor’s efforts to change a miser’s heart for the sake of his family. The theme of rewriting your past choices for the better is a powerful metaphor for the importance of family. Additionally, the story showcases the Gallifreyan’s dedication to saving not just individuals but also humanity as a whole, instilling a sense of pride in what it means to be British.
#4 “The End of Time, Part Two” (Tenth Doctor, 2010): Farewell to a Beloved Doctor
- As the Tenth Doctor bids farewell, the episode explores the impact of his adventures on the people he encountered. It touches on themes of loss, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of the Doctor. The farewell scenes evoke a sense of pride as the Doctor’s impact on Earth is celebrated, portraying him as a friend to humanity.
- Though, only one friend of the last Gallifreyan mattered that day, the man the 10th Doctor sacrificed his life for Wilfred Mott, the grandfather of Donna Noble. The passing of the 10th is especially felt when Wilfred’s eyes well up with tears during what he believed to be the last time he would see the man who saved his life.
#3 “The Runaway Bride” (Tenth Doctor, 2006): Donna Noble’s Journey to Getting Over Herself (The Christmas Bride)
- Donna’s unexpected journey in the TARDIS not only provides a thrilling adventure but also delves into themes of family and self-accountability. The episode highlights Donna’s evolving relationship with the Doctor and her determination to assert her independence, reflecting the importance of individuality within the broader concept of family.
- Christmas in the backdrop adds to the atmosphere of change that the episode themes itself after.
#2 The Christmas Invasion (Tenth Doctor, 2005)
- This episode explores the theme of family as Rose grapples with the latest regeneration, showcasing the impact it has on their dynamic. The sense of family is central to the resolution of Rose’s curosity about the new, and very energetic Time Lord.
- “Still not ginger!” Became an iconic line that has followed the franchise since it was introduced!
- The sword fight that felt so out of place until you found out that David Tennant is a Shakespearean actor.
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#1 The Daleks’ Master Plan (First Doctor, 1965) – Episode 7: “The Feast of Steven” (Christmas through the 4th Wall)
- While the overall serial is more action-oriented, Episode 7 features a humorous and lighthearted tone, emphasizing a sense of camaraderie and family, even breaking the fourth wall to wish viewers a Merry Christmas.
- The First Doctor set the tone of for all those to come. While ‘The Feast of Steven’ isn’t a Christmas special it did serve to show how important the holiday is to not only the Time Lord in his world; but also in our’s too.
So grab your TARDIS throw blanket and enjoy this frigid festive time with a marathon of DW Christmas specials, starting with these Top 5 picks that emphasize family and the pride of Britain!
What do you think? Are these the best Christmas specials the series has produced? Let me know in the comments! Merry Christmas!
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Nice list! The Christmas specials were actually pretty special.