Few stories in Doctor Who hold the cultural and celebratory weight of The Three Doctors. First broadcast in December 1972 and January 1973, this four-part serial marked the start of the tenth series of Doctor Who (not, as is often suggested, the tenth anniversary of the show, as that was 11 months later than the broadcast date) and brought together the first three incarnations of the Doctor for a daring and imaginative adventure. As the 65th story in the show’s history, it’s a milestone that celebrates the show’s past while setting the stage for its future.
The narrative begins with an unprecedented crisis: a mysterious black hole threatens to engulf the universe, and the Time Lords, rendered powerless, turn to their greatest renegade for help. To combat the threat posed by the renegade Time Lord Omega, they break their own laws and unite the First, Second, and Third Doctors. Together, they must uncover the truth behind the black hole and confront Omega, a tragic and powerful figure who blames the Time Lords for his eternal exile.
Jon Pertwee’s Third Doctor anchors the story with his usual blend of charm, intellect, and moral conviction. Pertwee shines in the role, particularly as he navigates the interplay between his Doctor and his predecessors. His sparring with Patrick Troughton’s Second Doctor is a highlight, the two contrasting personalities creating moments of levity and tension that enrich the narrative. Pertwee’s commanding presence ensures that the Third Doctor remains the central figure even as the past incarnations assert their unique strengths.
Patrick Troughton’s return as the Second Doctor is a delight. His mischievous energy and quick wit bring a dynamic contrast to Pertwee’s more authoritative demeanor. Troughton’s ability to balance humour with moments of gravitas reminds us why his era is so beloved. William Hartnell’s First Doctor, appearing via pre-recorded segments due to Hartnell’s declining health, adds a touch of gravitas and wisdom to the proceedings. Despite his limited screen time, Hartnell’s presence is felt throughout, his portrayal of the Doctor’s original incarnation underscoring the depth and continuity of the character.
Katy Manning’s Jo Grant once again proves to be a steadfast companion. Jo’s courage, empathy, and adaptability are on full display as she supports the Doctor(s) in their mission. Her interactions with all three incarnations of the Doctor highlight her resourcefulness and provide moments of warmth and humour amidst the high-stakes drama.
Omega, played by Stephen Thorne, is a fascinating and tragic antagonist. Once a hero who enabled the Time Lords to harness the power of time travel, Omega’s sacrifice left him trapped in an anti-matter universe, his bitterness and rage consuming him over millennia. Thorne’s performance is both menacing and poignant, his booming voice and towering presence conveying the character’s godlike power and deep despair. Omega’s confrontation with the Doctors reveals layers of pathos, making him one of the series’ most memorable villains.
The production design and effects, while limited by the technology of the time, succeed in creating a sense of scale and otherworldliness. The anti-matter universe is depicted as a surreal and unsettling realm, its stark simplicity contrasting with the vibrant and complex characters within it. The Time Lords’ plight, reduced to impotent observers, adds a sense of urgency and stakes to the narrative.
The story’s structure, which balances the interactions of the three Doctors with the unfolding mystery of Omega’s plans, ensures that the pacing remains engaging throughout. The humour, particularly the bickering between the Second and Third Doctors, provides a welcome counterpoint to the story’s darker themes. The resolution, which sees Omega’s plans thwarted by his own hubris, is both satisfying and tragic, underscoring the story’s exploration of sacrifice and obsession.
Watching The Three Doctors in 2025, it's hard not to be struck by how well it holds up as a celebration of the series’ legacy. The interplay between the Doctors not only highlights their individual strengths but also underscores the enduring qualities of the character: intelligence, compassion, and an unyielding sense of justice. The story’s ability to blend humour, drama, and high-concept science fiction remains a testament to the creativity and resilience of Doctor Who.
While The Three Doctors is a love letter to the show’s past, it also lays the groundwork for its future. The resolution sees the Time Lords restore the Third Doctor’s ability to travel through time and space, ending his exile on Earth and opening the door to new adventures. It’s a fitting conclusion to a story that celebrates the limitless potential of Doctor Who.
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