Brief Summary
This video discusses the behind-the-scenes drama that led to the cancellation of Doctor Who in the late 1980s, focusing on the controversial firing of Colin Baker, the Sixth Doctor. It explores the reasons behind the 1985 hiatus, the attempts by the expanded universe to provide a proper regeneration for the Sixth Doctor, and why viewers should reconsider and appreciate Colin Baker's portrayal.
- The show faced cancellation due to management changes and budget concerns, despite maintaining consistent viewership.
- Colin Baker's firing was influenced by various factors, including personal vendettas and corporate politics.
- The expanded universe, through novels and audio dramas, attempted to give the Sixth Doctor a more dignified departure.
Introduction
The video introduces the tumultuous period of Doctor Who in the late 1980s, marked by behind-the-scenes drama, hiatuses, and the eventual cancellation of the show. It highlights the controversial exit of Colin Baker, the Sixth Doctor, who is a favorite among many fans. The video aims to discuss the events leading to the 1985 hiatus, Colin Baker's firing, and the expanded universe's efforts to give him a proper regeneration, ultimately advocating for a reevaluation of the Sixth Doctor's era.
The 1985 Hiatus
On February 27, 1985, the BBC announced that Doctor Who would end at the conclusion of its current season, leading to outrage from the Doctor Who appreciation society. Despite the show maintaining high audience shares, the primary reason for its potential end was a change in management. Michael Grade, the controller of BBC 1, disliked Doctor Who and believed its budget could be better spent on new ideas. Grade considered the show outdated, overly violent, and having embarrassing visual effects. While Grade's criticism highlighted the show's budget limitations, fans launched a campaign to save Doctor Who, making Grade a target of their frustration. The show eventually returned with "Trial of a Time Lord," but viewing numbers were lower, indicating that the media backlash had negatively impacted public perception.
Colin Baker's Firing
In 1986, Colin Baker was informed that he would be replaced, despite the series being renewed. The decision to fire Baker was influenced by Jonathan Powell and Michael Grade, who aimed to revamp the show due to declining ratings. There are rumors that Grade's actual target was producer John Nathan Turner, and that Grade wanted to force Turner to resign by ordering him to sack the lead actor. Another rumor suggests that Grade had a personal vendetta against Baker due to an alleged romantic relationship with Baker's ex-wife. Baker refused to film a regeneration sequence because he was asked to return for only four episodes to be killed off. He later regretted this decision, acknowledging that he was being selfish and not considering the fans.
Expanded Universe Attempts at Regeneration
The Doctor Who expanded universe attempted to rectify Colin Baker's unceremonious departure through a novel titled "Spiral Scratch" and an audio drama series called "The Last Adventure." "Spiral Scratch" involves the Multiverse shrinking, leading to the Doctor sacrificing his life to save the universe. "The Last Adventure," an audio drama by Big Finish Productions, presents a four-part series where the Doctor encounters the Valeyard, leading to his regeneration. The story leads into "Time and the Rani" and suggests that the Doctor dies from radiation that affects Time Lords. This audio drama is considered a definitive departure for the Sixth Doctor, with Colin Baker himself performing the role.
Give the Sixth Doctor a Chance
Despite the criticism Colin Baker faced, it is unfair to say he wasn't any good. Every actor who has played the Doctor has faced criticism. While some fans believe Big Finish saved Colin's Doctor, his original run is still enjoyable. With "The Last Adventure," he has been given a departure he deserves. Even though it was years late, the end is only the beginning. Colin Baker continues to record new audios, and his era is filled with questionable morals and controversial choices, making the Doctor dangerous and unkind but still the Doctor at his core.
