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awful decision and I had so much faith in the Moff before, nevermind

Posted by Daft Aider (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:02 PM GMT #

How cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by xtremecnc (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:04 PM GMT #

After Moffat's previous episodes I have full faith in him and trust him with The Doctor and his choice in the casting.

The thing about shows like this is that you're not going to please everyone with new casting because we are all used to David Tennant and have grown to love him.

I'm willing to give Matt Smith a chance because I love the show!!

S.

Posted by Snowy (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:11 PM GMT #

How can it be an awful decision? We've seen nothing of him in the role yet and it remains to be seen whether this is a great decision by Moffatt or a misfire. Honestly, the knee-jerk geekery of some fans makes me embarassed to call myself a nerd...

Posted by Fluffrick (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:13 PM GMT #

thank you Fluffrick, voice of reason.

some people just enjoy negativity.

Posted by Ray (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:14 PM GMT #

Totally surprised by that choice and pleasantly so! I have seen Matt Smith in a few things now and always found myself watching him more than the other actors onscreen. I have 100% faith in what Stephen Moffat has planned and if he believes Matt Smith fits his idea of The Doctor, that's good enough for me!

Posted by The Shape (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:19 PM GMT #

Well said, Fluffrick. I mean, it's not as if Steven Moffat hasn't been working in telly for several years and doesn't know what he's doing. People should give the new bloke a chance at least, before condemning him.

Posted by Bob (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:20 PM GMT #

The production team aint put a foot wrong yet, so you have to figure they know what they are doing. The only thing bugging me is that it all seems a bit Smallvilley/Merliny. We shall see.

Posted by Patrick Hall (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:21 PM GMT #

FANTASTIC CHOICE!

Bring on 2010!

Posted by Jacko (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:21 PM GMT #

Yes, i know, but i was matt smith 10 years before him!

Fair choice, but i am a little concerned that he may be too similar to DT to make the doc his own??

whaddya reckon?

Posted by MATT SMITH (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:23 PM GMT #

Never heard of him, which in my book is great! I'm going to enjoy seeing someone on screen who I'll know only as the Doctor without any excess baggage!

Do feel quite old now that the Doctor is younger than me though...

Posted by Tim Dawkins (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:23 PM GMT
Website: http://www.foundobjectsband.co.uk #

I have to say...bravo to Mr Moffat and team. Granted I haven't seen Matt Smith act yet (I don't like politics unless its set in The West Wing and costume dramas do nothing for me) but I am actually looking forward to this...plus, based on his small interview in DW: Confidential he seems to have a good handle on the character and the right level of zest and excitement, mixed with anxiety.

However I can see already that this is gonna possibly get a lot of fans angry and words will be written from now until the next full series starts about how this is the wrong decision and thats it gonna ruin Doctor Who etc, etc, etc...everyone is allowed to have their opinion and express it, but before people start slating Matt Smith let me remind people that when Catherine Tate was announced as a companion, people said that it was gonna ruin Doctor Who and that it was a bad decision...and we all know how absolutely brilliant she was.

I for one am sending all my support to Matt Smith. He is taking on what is possibly the most high profile acting role on british TV...and he deserves support and respect for that.

Mr Moffat and Mr Smith, all the luck for 2010...I will be watching with baited breath...now if you could just build a real TARDIS and drag us forward in time by about a year that would be neat :)

Posted by Shaun Brown (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:24 PM GMT #

watching matt smith on the box he's like a cross between prof magnus pike and noel fielding! i think he'll be just fine as the doctor....hmmmm but i can't help but think he may get a daniel craig-esque type reception from some quaters...but not from here, congrats matt!

Posted by tom (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:25 PM GMT #

Initial reaction is one of disappointment - just feel the actor is too young...although you can see why he was cast - only time will tell - best thing we can do is trust in those responsible, I'm sure they know what they're doing.....

Posted by paul stephens (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:26 PM GMT #

Interesting choice, i can see potential there.
Reckon he got the part by looking like the Melkur though!
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/113/303606417_53578f85d3.jpg?v=0

Posted by Maff (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:26 PM GMT #

I think he's an ok choice. I'm glad he's not Tennant handsome, and is quirky looking. A BUSTED version of the Doctor would kill the series.

He seems a nice enough guy and I trust the Moff because all his stuff has been great.

Incidentally he can't be River Song's Doctor, not unless she likes cradle snatching.

There are a million people prepared to hate him. I am fuming they have chosen a 26 year old for the role, (strange really as my wife is 27 and I am 29 but...) however I think he seems to have a lot of heart, and as long as he plays the role straight, and not ultra hip and young to appeal to girlies, and kids it should be good.

I know Doctor Who is a kids/family show but isn't it weird to imagine such a young looking guy getting the keys to the TARDIS, and getting the respect due to him from UNIT?

I reserve judgment, which is all anyone can do. I wish him luck, and I'm sure his best efforts will be enough if they are truly his best.

Posted by Richard Lawrence (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:27 PM GMT #

I think he will be great! Obviously a very talented actor, a bit mad, shame about his hair, but that's why stylist were invented, and with the Moff in charge he's going to have some great stories to play with... bring on Spring 2010!

Posted by Steven Gaythorpe (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:27 PM GMT #

But he's so ugly!

Posted by Elvis (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:30 PM GMT #

They're going for a Twilight, Noel Fielding, Goth-Type then? Hmmmm. He's certainly not an actor who's been on my radar. I hope he can pull it off because he has HUGE shoes to fill. It could be a 1 season disaster or...he could be the best we've ever seen. WHO knows. Brave casting that's for sure. He looks weird enough though. But I'd love it if they dyed his hair GINGER!!! Then he'd be really, really weird and alien looking.

Posted by Scotty (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:32 PM GMT #

You mean he isn't traditionally good looking Elvis?

Tennant has always been too pretty boy, his snogging every woman to come along has been a bit hard to swallow.

This chap is good looking as seen in Ruby in the Smoke and Shadow in the North. It's just that the haircut is AWFUL!

Posted by Richard Lawrence (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:32 PM GMT #

I was initially disappointed, but I like him now, after giving it some time to sink in. The snippets they showed made him seem a good actor, his face might not be the prettiest but it's interesting and looks very versatile, and his personality came across as being lovely, with a nice quirkiness that was very Doctor-esque. Choosing an unknown with the tiniest touch of Tennant to him will help people with the change I think, since Tennant's been one of the most popular Doctors ever.

And being so young could be played very interestingly, perhaps with an older companion? I can see a great dynamic being played out from his youth, and how UNIT react to someone so young WOULD be excellent.

Posted by Silv (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:42 PM GMT #

Yeah, that age thing is a kicker - it's like when policemen start looking younger and younger... It was bad enough when Tennant was cast, and he's younger than me (just!) but this is insane.

Not that I can pass any sort of judgement until I have seen him in action - after all, there was no way anyone could follow Tom Baker when I was growing up, but it happened, and with style.

Can't wait.

Posted by Scurra (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:42 PM GMT #

Matt Smith? Well i've never heard of him, not seen him on 't telly, but as long as DT is going-good. What's all this about MS being ugly? I think he's a decent bit of totty! I can't wait for DT to go and season 5 to begin.

Posted by simon (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:52 PM GMT #

I think Matt Smith could be an inspired choice, I don't think that him being only 26 should or will have any baring on how he plays the Doctor.

When he first appeared on screen in the interview and started talking i did get a feeling of Keanu Reeves in Bill & Ted from his mannerisms.
This could make the Doctor quite interesting.

I say give the guy a chance and enjoy what is to come.

Also i am so glad they didn't pick a high profile actor.

Posted by varn (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:57 PM GMT #

Must admit this took me by surprise, especially as the bookies seemed to have Paterson Joseph earmarked for the role.
It's obviously impossible to form any opinion until he's seen in action (imagine basing an opinion back in the 70s ona single interview clip of Tom Baker) so all any fan can do is wish him well.

And, as someone above pointed out, Daniel Craig was slated before anyone saw a frame of him as Bond-and look how he turned out...

Posted by David Lemon (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 06:58 PM GMT
Website: http://www.jetpacksandsuch.blogspot.com #

Awful, just awful.

This decision will destroy the show.

Posted by 127.0.0.1 on January 03, 2009 at 06:58 PM GMT #

Who the hell is he????

Posted by Paul (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 07:03 PM GMT #

Have to say that Moff has taken us all by surprise. We were all expecting Paterson Joseph (and I must admit that I was waiting for Chewitel Ejiofor) and we get the virtually unknown Matt Smith. Great stuff. He looks intense, bit other-worldly and I understand what Moff and Piers Wenger say about him looking young and old at the same time. Good luck Matt- I'm sure you will be great!

Posted by Joel (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 07:03 PM GMT #

chuffed as nuts they picked an 'unknown' actor. i have seen him a few bits and think he is great to watch. Versatile as well, which is exactly what we need in the doc.

poor chap seemed really nervous in the interview....probably worried about the lynching he gonna get on the forum lol.....but i like that..it means he cares about it.

as for the 'ugly' comments.....i am sure there were a few that thought the same about david to begin with. and why does the doc have to be good looking????!!

roll on 2010 :)

Posted by dogmatix (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 07:18 PM GMT #

"I felt a great disturbance in the Force... as if millions of voices suddenly cried out in terror and were suddenly silenced."

Posted by Jason Louis (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 07:24 PM GMT
Website: http://www.havedicewilldobattle.blogspot.com #

Why are people prattling on about 'pretty'? How many doctors could you describe as pretty. Moffat sideswiped us all, no he is not black or asian or female as so many old-skool fans feared. A young(ish) man with talent? Burn the heretic! I admit I have never heard of him, but then I never heard of David Tennant before his debut, (my mum had, but lets leave that there). The trouble with a well known actor playing the role is that you may not get beyond the actor's face and see the character. What I saw on 'confidential' was an actor of range and depth. Why are people complaining? Steven Moffat is taking over the reigns, promising NEW adventures and NEW enemies. New new new new new who!
And Tom. You are right. A Magnus Pikey character is the way to go.

Posted by luke (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 07:36 PM GMT #

I remember thinking that I wouldn't bother watching the new Dr Who when I heard Billie Piper and Christopher Ecclestone were going to be in it. I was wrong.

Then I remember thinking that David T would be a bad idea. I was wrong again.

Well I know I was very worried about Catherine Tate and I was very wrong there.

When I saw who the next Dr is going to be, I thought that it wasn't a good idea. Maybe I'm wrong again ;)

I have learnt no to make my decision on the casting in Dr Who until I see them performing in the show. On top of that we have, in my opinion, the person who has written several of the best ever episodes in the series, in charge.

I don't even feel guilty about pouring loads and loads of expectations onto Moffatt because I just know he is going to do a great job. I think that after Obama there can't be anyone else with as many expectations stacked up against them ;)

Posted by Marvelbeast (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 07:39 PM GMT #

I was in shock when he first came on screen, but as he kept talking, I could see that he was the right choice. He'll be getting my support all the way, unlike the misery guts on here who couldn't wait to slate him without even seeing him in the role yet. Pathetic.

To those people I say, lets talk Spring 2010, until then, shut it misery guts.

Posted by 127.0.0.1 on January 03, 2009 at 07:44 PM GMT #

Fantastic choice!

Finally Doctor Who is back =D

Posted by Rassilon (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 07:49 PM GMT #

First reaction was "And who is he then?" but when I saw him talking about it with his obvious excitment and how he has clearly already been researching the role throughly and how he wants to learn more...that is enough to excite me.

The clips they showed and the fact that most of his acting has been in Drama shows he has the ability to pull it off.

But most important is the fact that he cares about the role. That combined with Stephen Moffat choosing him his enough to give me plenty of confidence in him.

I'm excited to see where this new Doctor is going to take the role. Also people who are worried about him being ugly? 1. He isn't ugly. He's just not a "pretty boy" 2. Patrick Troughton wasn't exactly the prettiest man in the world, neither was William Hartnall or even (I dare say) was Tom Baker! But they were all great actors who could play the Doctor. They MADE the Doctor.

Matt Smith has a challenge, but I'm looking forward to finding out what he's got to offer.

Posted by Beth (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 08:26 PM GMT #

People are already taking the piss out of the choice. Jesus have you people not learnt anything from the Catherine Tate thing, or the Daniel Craig backlash or...

well you lot get my point. Honestly i got a little excited just watching the interview. Complaining about a relative unknown? Hands up any of you who REALLY knew who David Tenant was before he took the role of the Dr. Oh, look, none of you did.

Posted by Richard Casey (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 08:38 PM GMT #

I'm looking forward to seeing on-screen what the Moff and the rest of the team saw in auditions.

Probably by the time Matt Smith decides to leave we'll all be saying "there's no way the new guy will live up to Matt Smith".

Just watch all the negative people backtrack like a gravy covered safari guide running away from a hungry lion.

I think he looks the part already...
http://www.gallifreyone.com/picview.php?ret=news&sub=news&id=smith_doctor_2.jpg

Posted by A Clockwork Orange (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 08:50 PM GMT #

I haven't seen the Confidential yet - didn't even know there was one - but I'm perfectly happy to be completely surprised by someone I've never heard of.

The problem with all the tabloid rumour fest meltdown of late is that it's only relatively well-known actors who get tipped - even if the cat was out the bag earlier regarding Matt’s casting, some youngish guy no-one's heard of isn't going to be much of a story in the Sun, online or wherever.

I remember hearing about Tennant’s casting and in the same way thinking, ’who?’ But then, Tennant had been a well-established thesp for some 15-odd years before Who - just not famous. Yet.

We shall of course just have to wait to see how such a yungun will handle this legendary role - especially like the idea of getting a companion who’s older than him, but suspect it’s not that likely…

and if young Mr. Smith is mad enough to attempt reading any of this, congratulations, look out for the premature hater-brigade and good luck to you, sir! Let the naysayers exterminate themselves!

Plus he looks a tiny bit like me and has seems to have similarly unmanageable hair. So that's fine in my books. Who's Matt Smith you say? WHO is he? HE IS WHO! And that's it, really… Time will tell, it always does, etc…

Posted by spiderboris (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 08:50 PM GMT
Website: http://televisionoff.blogspot.com #

An interesting choice, to say the least. I suppose that we're back where we started with David Tennant [come on, how many of you watched Casanova?]. A little known actor stepping into one of the [if not THE] most high profile roles on TV. I, like so many, have faith in the Moff. Roll on 2010 and the best of luck to Matt Smith.

Posted by James Taylor (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 08:53 PM GMT #

Worst effing decision ever. Not only does the boy look like frankenstein with a hairdo straight out of spandau ballet, he is also only 26. 6 years older than me. Too young by far to have attained the level of charisma and experience neccessary for the role of the Doctor. Appalling. Me and friends were screaming in frustration at the television. I can't bring myself to watch such a fantastic show go down the drain. Boycott. Definitely.

Posted by Eliza (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 09:01 PM GMT #

give him a chance
what did we all think of david before he was who ?
you get used to them after time so give him a break

Posted by cyberbloke (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 09:04 PM GMT #

I was taken completely by surprise by the annoucement and the surprise is a pleasant one. Even though I would have preferred an older doctor, the other-worldliness of Matt Smith's appearance fits the bill nicely.

It'll be exciting to see what he and Moffatt can do in 2010 but here in Scarf Terrace, my wife is distraught that there's only three more Tennant stories to go.

Posted by Tom Baker's Scarf (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 09:12 PM GMT #

WTF!!!! It comes to something when the doctor is played by an actor who is effing younger than you.
He better be a bloody good actor or otherwise my favourite show will be ruined.

Posted by kirk (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 09:55 PM GMT #

I have to admit I got shivers up my spine when I saw Matt. He's been great in other things I've seen and he looks just right: an interesting, unusual face and a good accent. It looks as if the Moff has made a great decision. It really is SO boring to hear people slagging off a decision when not even a single second of the new Doctor has been shot. Let's at least give it a few episodes.

I'm feeling well excited, and a little bit guilty because I thought I'd be more upset about losing Tennant.

Posted by Simon Funnell (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 10:08 PM GMT #

Looking forward to finding out the feelings of my mate's Who-lovin' young kids in a day or so, who were barely sentient when Tennant arrived on the scene, and must be in a severe state of shock.

Seriously, has anyone consulted someone aged, ooh, seven or so to hear what they think ? 'Cos, sorry, but the show belongs to them now.

Still somewhat discombobulated by this somewhat surprising (to me,anyway) choice, but hey, welcome Matt, and good luck. (Looks like you'll need it.)

Let's see what the man does with the ball he's been thrown, eh ?

Posted by 127.0.0.1 on January 03, 2009 at 10:40 PM GMT #

It's not the first time a young relatively unknown actor with quirky looks has been cast as the Doctor. Tom Baker pulled it off in 1974 and he seemed quite popular.

Posted by Bob (127.0.0.1) on January 03, 2009 at 11:11 PM GMT #

I am dismayed at the level of abserdity the makers of new who have lowered themselves too. I have been totally amazed at the panto values the show has adopted since it came back on air. David Morrisy was the only good thing about the christmas special and was too good for this tosh but could have redeemed this abomination of new who. Unforgivable BBC on every level, goodbye Doctor Who. R.I.P

Posted by James Logie (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 12:48 AM GMT #

Looking forward to finding out the feelings of my mate's Who-lovin' young kids in a day or so, who were barely sentient when Tennant arrived on the scene, and must be in a severe state of shock.

Seriously, has anyone consulted someone aged, ooh, seven or so to hear what they think ? 'Cos, sorry, but the show belongs to them now.

Still somewhat discombobulated by this somewhat surprising (to me,anyway) choice, but hey, welcome Matt, and good luck. (Looks like you'll need it.)

Let's see what the man does with the ball he's been thrown, eh ?

Posted by me (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 12:55 AM GMT #

@James Logie

I suggest you learn what a mobile phone, an ipod and an xbox is as you sir are surely stll stuck in the 70's!

Things change. Live with it

Anyway, I wish Matt all the best. He has the char,m to do this well. I don't know why people are moaning about his looks and his hair. His hair is the most stand out feature!

Posted by s.j.holland (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 01:07 AM GMT #

What a horrendous decision. It's quite obviously pandering to the simpering 7-10 year old market that watches Robin Hoody. Anyone who thought that Bill Nighy, or anyone over the age of 30 for that matter, had a chance of grabbing the role is kidding themselves. Do the producers think that by picking someone young and hip, but who isn't quite pretty enough to get in McFly, they'll please everyone? Typical lefty BBC shite decision - try to please everyone, but end up pleasing no one. This will be the death of the show. And as if RTD's gay agenda didn't turn enough people off!

Posted by 127.0.0.1 on January 04, 2009 at 01:22 AM GMT #

I don't like this backlash already on these pages, whining about Matt Smith being too young or not handsome enough!! In defence, Peter Davison was 29 when he took control of the TARDIS from Tom Baker. As for his looks, well, he's quite good looking. I think he's got quite a Doctorish nose, very like Jon Pertwee's and Tom Baker's; you can almost see the lineage. With respect to Matt, I shall refrain from making any asinine comments about him at all, not that I would, and put my faith in Steven Moffatts decision to hire him. I am not going to be too judgmental already. I haven't seen the Confidential he appeared in, as I was in Derry at the time shopping, but I am looking forward to the 2010 series to see Matt's take on the Doctor, as a lot of people seem to forget that although the character of the Doctor never changes, each incarnation of the role has always had a different or subtle personality. So let's give him a chance please, he has the potential to be even bigger than David Tennant. So stop knocking Steven Moffatt, and leave Matt Smith alone. Personally I think he's brilliant casting and can't wait to see him in action. Good Luck Matt and Happy New Year to you as the Eleventh Doctor, when we see you on screen at the end of this New Year!!

Posted by David McClements (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 01:24 AM GMT #

And he is Ugly -- He has hardly any eyebrows - His eyes are too deep set == and he has a massive forehead !!!

so Elvis -- I know where ya coming from .

Posted by 127.0.0.1 on January 04, 2009 at 08:26 AM GMT #

he has big nose.

he bad.

(just thought's I'd bring the level of this debate up a notch or two.)

Posted by Hannah (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 09:33 AM GMT #

Excellent choice! He seems a mix between Christopher and David to me.. I think he really can pull it off since I thought he got far too little screentime in the Ruby in the Smoke.
Cheers Matt! I'm sure I'll be one of your fans!

Posted by Maria (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 10:19 AM GMT #

Once again the ming mongs are out in force moaning about things that really don't need to be whinged about.

As for what I think I am really looking forward to the Moffat era and I have every bit of faith he will take Who in a fantastic new direction. Good luck to the 11th Doctor Matt Smith.

Posted by Son Of Solo (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 10:44 AM GMT #

I think we should trust the WHO team and stop knocking Matt before we've seen him as Who. I more curious about what the stories and themes are going to be in the reign is it going to be scarier,darker and more gothic. Then maybe Matt will be a perfect choice.

Posted by jase (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 10:49 AM GMT #

Why are some people being so negative?
Does 'Craignotbond' not ring any bells with you? Some fandom slagged off Catherine Tate's performance before she had done the season, and look how highly regarded she is now!
David Tennant was a virtual unknown before he got the part, as was Tom Baker. Matt Smith deserves our support, not our condemnation.
The doom-mongers saying that Doctor Who is finished really need to think. Are you the same fans who condemn RTD even though he has made DW the most popular show on TV?
The Moff knows what he is doing. In 1999, he said he would cast an older Doctor rather than a younger Doctor- he must have seen something in Matt Smith's audition which blew him, and Piers Wenger, away. This isn't a demographic decision- it's down to talent and the fact that Matt Smith is the guy that they wanted. Let's get behind him please.
If you don't like him after his first few performances, fine. But remember how stupid the 'Craignotbond' nay-sayers look now. Do you really want to be that stupid?

Posted by Joel (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 10:51 AM GMT #

Otherworldly, quirky, enthusiastic - it's a great combination and very promising. BUT, can a 26-year-old speak to a broad audience? Doesn't it make 'Who look a bit like a teeny series? Davison was 29 going on 39 but Smith is 26 going on 22 by the look of him. I think he could be terrific but it just seems a little Young Sherlock Holmes/Young Indie to me. Perhaps we have the perfect 12th Doctor (in time for his 31st birthday, say) but after Robert Carlyle clearly stating he was up for it, this seems like going with the cheaper option as the credit crunch hits (after all, 'Who wouldn't be able to afford 9 months of Bobby's time on Tennant's wage). From Chris Eccleston to Matt Smith in just a few years - it's odd. He will probably be fabulous (I hope so) but the age is an issue with me. The cult of youth is with us and it could possibly set in stone how the Doctor is cast for a long time. I wish him well and I will be watching but I wonder if middle-aged viewers will wonder if the show has been hi-jacked for a teenage audience - the audience who seem least bothered about it!

Posted by Rob (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 11:11 AM GMT #

These things have been said EVERY time a new Doctor is chosen !!!Give the lad a chance!!!!
Be grateful that the show is still on.The kids love it and that is what its all about.Im looking forward to seeing what he'll do with the role,roll on 2010!

Posted by Neil (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 12:11 PM GMT #

I liked the idea of Capt. Jack Harkness becoming the 'Face of Boe'....not sure about the Doctor becoming the 'Chin of Who'

Posted by Keith Beach (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 01:10 PM GMT
Website: http:// #

Well, I was convinced it was going to be Paterson Joseph (who would have been a total 'wrong' choice IMO) and was grinning from ear to ear when Matt Smith was presented before us :D

I'd always wanted an older Doctor, to be honest, and if anyone had told me in advance the new Doctor was only 26 years old I'd have been very worried....

However, you can tell even from the brief time he was on screen why The Moff choose Matt. He just looks like the Doctor and has the 'Doctor-ness' that was totally missing from Paterson etc... There's a sort of 'alien' quality about him and has an 'old/young' face (copyright Terrance Dicks :) )....

I think he's an inspired choice and I cant wait for the era of The Eleventh Doctor to begin.... It's gonna ROCK!!!!!

M 8)

Posted by Marc Atkinson (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 01:29 PM GMT
Website: http://www.marcatkinson.co.uk #

i'm surprised, i was definitely expecting older.

clearly none of the names that were bandied about in the media or at the bookies were ever in the running...

i'm relieved it's not certain actors but it's also not my "fantasy casting".

but it's one of the times in life where rather than getting what you personally would choose, you get what you get and see what they do with it.

matt smith looks right though in his own way, but ultimately it will come down to the quality of the writing. moffat has written my favourite episodes of Dr Who in the entire history of the series and i have complete faith in him.

i'm glad RTD did what he did but i'm glad to see him go and now i'm sure the show will go from strength to strength (almost) regardless of who plays The Doctor.

Posted by Jude (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 02:11 PM GMT
Website: http://chewedmelon.deviantart.com/gallery/ #

Why So Serious?
we dont get the BBC in gotham

Posted by Joker (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 02:19 PM GMT #

I'm looking forward to see what Matt Smith has that made him such an obvious choice as the Doctor to the people behind the show.

I know he'll be different to David Tennant :-( but as long as he keeps the Doctor along the same lines I'm sure I'll be satisfied!

Posted by Teresa (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 02:27 PM GMT #

hmmm a bit surprised to say the least but all things considered if he impressed moff and co throughout the whole audition process he must have something.

Posted by rob h (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 02:39 PM GMT #

interesting choice but...
Why do i get the feeling he's going to be an emo styled doctor

Posted by Ean (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 02:44 PM GMT #

@Eliza

Grow up.

Do you know what he's going to be like playing Dr Who? No.

So shut it until then. Or go back to watching Hollyoaks for your pretty pretties

Posted by dhrupick (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 02:46 PM GMT #

I have to say, I do not have a good feeling about this. Obviously we can't know for sure what he will be like until we see him in action, but you can't get away from the fact that he is very, very young and may well struggle to bring the depth and sense of authority that the role needs just as much as the child-like excitment. I have a lot of faith in The Moff in terms of his writing; he has been the most consistently excellent writer in the show's history. I just hope he also knows what he's doing with casting... On the upside, at least it isn't real car-crash casting like the omnipresent Patterson Joseph / Alan Davies / Sean Pertwee rumours. I guess ultimately the problem would be the same for anyone having to step into the All Stars of perhaps the finest Doctor ever. And lest we forget, it wouldn't be the first time we have suffered the problems of a plain bad actor (step up Sylvester McCoy) or a good actor miscast in the role (Chris Ecclestone). All we can do is hope like hell and wait patiently. It's gonna be a long and nerve-wracking year...

Posted by Duncan (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 03:50 PM GMT #

Here we go again, the usual 'This decision will destroy Doctor Who' brigade are back, personally I just ignore them and let them get on with it, there will always be a small minority of whingers and lets face it, there always has been and always always will be! They seem to think that airing their brainless knee jerk reactions will somehow make a difference? No matter who was announced last night there would have been some losers somewhere on the net moaning so let them have their five minutes, because in the end it's not going to make a blind bit of difference. For me Matt Smith is an excellent casting choice, as I predicted Mofatt has gone for a relative unknown, up and coming actor and from what I've seen of this guy, he can act his socks off and has that wonderful otherworldly look about him thats so important to the Doctor. Who cares that he's only twenty six? That's only three years younger than Davidson was? Mark my words this guy will be a revelation, as David Tennant has been. Now I'm just going to sit back and watch the moaners backtrack and eat their words come 2010!

Posted by The Naysayer (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 03:56 PM GMT #

Even if he's crap I'll still watch it like I did with Colin Baker. And he could never be that bad!
So let's all relax,

Posted by turnip captain (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 04:16 PM GMT #

In fairness, very few people are saying that the decision will destroy Doctor Who, but some are expressing legitimate worries. Not every decision that has been made since the show's return has been a good one, and it is perfectly legitimate to express doubt or worry about them. Sometimes a decision which looks utterly disasterous can turn out to be simply a bit misguided; Bringing back Catherine Tate for a full season looked, at face value, like a bit of a death knell, but turned out just to be mildly rather than profoundly irritating. Those of us that love the show are just very aware that, when it comes to the casting of The Doctor, what we really want is "Brilliant" rather than merely "Adequate" or "Bearable". That said, I am certainly hoping that Matt works out, and I would be only delighted to discover he outshines even the great Tennant! My best wishes go out to Matt, particularly for what I imagine will be a very difficult year before his performance is finally broadcast.
As an aside, I surely can't be the only one hoping for a good long return engagement for Sally Sparrow... ;-)

Posted by Duncan (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 04:19 PM GMT #

As I said, a small minority of moaners!
This small minority seem to be basing their decision purely on his age, yet claim not to know who he is so have obviously not seen the guy act, yet seem to think he's a bad choice? This guy has done a lot of theatre and beieve me he is a great up and coming actor. As Steve Moffatt said they auditioned a lot of people but they kept going back to Matt Smith because his performance was so good, so they've obviously seen something in his audition that made them believe he was the right choice! Moffat more than anyone knows his Doctor Who and unless you were privy to that audition how can anyone know what he's going to be like as the Doctor? I'll say it again, this guy will make a great Doctor, regardless of his age! Sure he's got big boots to fill but with Moffats scripts and his ability and enthusiasm, I think we're all in for a treat in 2010.

Posted by The Naysayer (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 04:50 PM GMT #

What's all this crazy talk about the Doctor needing to be sexy! I bet half of the people mentioning it he's not as cute as gawky DT were up in arms when Chris Eccelstone kissed Billy Piper for the first time and sexed up the TARDIS for ever!

Did anyone watching not see those wonderfull hand guestures he had when he was talking. Or the way that controversial big forehead of his make his eyes look dark and brooding just by looking down the camera. It put centuries on him and certainly made me feel he could do dangerous and powerful. What made me sure, and no I was not when I first saw him was the shot right at the end of Confidential when he looked down the camera wow he was haunted and melancholy in such a cool way. Very importantly he is different, very different from DT and that was necessary. His energy looks very different and the program needs that.

Posted by Dave Walker (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 05:15 PM GMT #

Admittedly, McCoy was a questionable actor to cast and he had his moments, but I think its fair to say that on screen he was never brilliant. Although to give him some credit, the show was a cash-strapped sticky-back plastic disaster struggling to stay afloat back then and certainly didn't have the finances, quality control, critical acclaim and a generally SF-friendly climate to work in.

Some of us might have issues with Nu-Who, but come on, what would you rather see, the series axed and taken off the air, because it's occasionally guilty of trying to appeal to a broader demographic? That's an argument that holds no water.

Matt Smith might be young and unknown, but he's just going to be another cog in the grand Who machine which has always been a bigger engine that doesn't exclusively depend on its star. The show isn't rubbish, and unless Steven Moffat suddenly decides he hates the show and starts deliberately making it bad (which so many cheery negativists already seem to be wanting him to do) then it will carry on, sometimes good, sometimes bad, but more often than not, usually pretty excellent and at the very least, entertaining.

Which is all Who really is - just a piece of entertainment to occasionally provoke us all and make us think, laugh or go hmmm. That's enough for all of us, surely...

This is kind of the opposite of what's going to happen any day now when George W. Bush regenerates into Barack Obama. Maybe. Cheer up, people - we'll probably get a black woman as the Doctor next time around... then you can all really get upset.

Posted by spiderboris (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 05:18 PM GMT
Website: http://televisionoff.blogspot.com #

"This is kind of the opposite of what's going to happen any day now when George W. Bush regenerates into Barack Obama. Maybe."

God, now that is one regeneration scene I would pay hard cash money to see... do you thing Bush would go out in a festival of gurning like McCoy... we can but dream...

In fact, I throw out this challenge to any computer and film literate creative types out there... can anyone create that scene for us? A greatful world awaits!

Posted by Duncan (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 05:27 PM GMT #

"Even if he's crap I'll still watch it like I did with Colin Baker. And he could never be that bad!
So let's all relax"

Careful - they're may not be many of us but we sixth Doctor fans aren't nice when our dander's up. Back off Sixie! ;)

Posted by Rob (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 05:56 PM GMT #

We have a whole year to wait now until Matt Smith takes over the TARDIS. It's a little premature to say what he's going to be like yet. Personally I think he looks the part, and he appears to be a good actor, which is what the part requires. I'm just hoping that with the Moff, and Mr Smith, that the re-design the interior of the TARDIS (new Desk-Top please!!!) as we've had this one for 4 years, and I'm sure they can come up with something funkier! Oh yes, and please film in HD!!!! It's ridiculous that the due to amount of time the SFX would take to render in HD, that the BBC's biggest drama series is still filmed in Standard Definition.

Posted by Captain Geek-Spehere (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 06:49 PM GMT #

mmm yes he is young but provided hes allowed to develop his own persona in the role as distinct from DTs and provoded he gets some good scripts-moffits going to have to be firing on all cylinders to launch such a young looking doctor, then it may work out well well, we'll just have to see. But please no more hand holding I love you but our love can never be bollocks eh, RTD rather mined that particular seam to death.

Posted by spg (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 08:29 PM GMT #

I always have cynical tact when shows switch characters out. SO...probably not best for me to comment. It's always going to be a risk changing the main character, there is more of an invested interest in them. Companions are slightly easier to welcome because your comforted by DT amazing performances as the Doctor.

THIS is a major change though having both companion and doctor being new. I was a firm backer of Chiwetal as the doctor and so was disappointed from the start. My gf says give him a chance. It's just that he looks pretty young and so no real appearance of life experience that you would expect a time lord to have as he has seen a lot. Ah well we shall see

Posted by Rusted Faith (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 08:39 PM GMT #

I love the fact that you have people who can't even spell the name of previous Doctors - Ecclestone anybody - posting comments. We have the same typical naysayers who dismissed Tate's role as companion coming in and dismissing a casting decision before seeing a single scene before camera. What do you want from this show? Idiots, the lot of you!

Posted by Matt Adams (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 09:00 PM GMT #

What do we want?

How about a Doctor who doesn't look like the Elephant Man.

Posted by Typical Naysayer... (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 09:31 PM GMT #

Good luck to him, the lucky git.
For some insane reason I was kinda hoping for Vinnie Jones. Oh well.

So how long before they pluck up the courage (and the funding) for "The Four Doctors":
McGann, Eccleston, Tennant, Smith.

Posted by Bobcat (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 09:47 PM GMT #

If he's 26 now and won't be on screen for a year, I'm almost certain he'll have had a birthday by then. Thus, Mat will most likely be 27 when playing the Doctor. Frankly, who gives a toss? I was completely wrong about Billie Piper then wrong again about Catherine Tate, plus I'm not an expert in the TV casting business. I think we have to assume that the Grand Moff has more than the slightest clue about doing his job. Anyone here think they could do better? Anyone?

Posted by Tallguy (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 10:19 PM GMT #

Oh, god, give the guy a chance. Have you all forgotten how much you all decided you hated Catherine Tate a few years ago? How about you try not automatically loathing every new casting decision made by the showrunners, who have consistently proven that they know exactly what they're doing? Thank goodness they're in charge, not some of you folks. And for the people who've been yelling for two years about getting Sally Sparrow back - if you have any other real reason for me apart from "she's pretty", I'd like to hear it.

Posted by Alison (127.0.0.1) on January 04, 2009 at 11:14 PM GMT #

I think it's amazing how much faith everyone seems to have in Steven Moffat. Surely enough to propel him halfway across the Thames, before turning it into a passable Chardonnay.

For me, personally, this Doctor is an age gap too far. I'm fifty-four and I found Tennant too young, but I stuck with it for my love of the original series. I think I shall have to admit that I've grown out of Doctor Who now.

Oh, and for the record, I didn't like Eccleston, I never got to like Catherine Tate (though I did get to like Billie Piper), I had several problems with the unnecessary changes that RTD made to the format of the series and I don't think Steven Moffat is necessarily infallible as a writer or a producer. So I smile a little every time someone in this thread says "we all know how brilliantly that turned out." Because, you see, there are different opinions out here.

I hope you all continue to enjoy the show. I'll have to find something else to watch.

Posted by Zander Nyrond (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 12:37 AM GMT
Website: http://www.nyrond.co.uk #

Relax!! I can't wait to see where the show will go in 2010. Good, bad, indifferent- Doctor Who has always been fascinating, entertaining television. New views, new doctors, new looks, that's why it's been around for 45 years! I do know one thing about Dr. Who, it's like wine- tends to get better with age. I remember in the 80's really disliking anything that came after Tom Baker. Now I watch those shows and really enjoy them on their own terms. I expect to love Matt Smith's work in the same way. He'll add more flavor and richness to a show that just keeps getting better and better. With dr. who the whole is so much more than the parts, and we are truly blessed to be fans of a show like this.

Posted by Chris Eilenstine (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 12:50 AM GMT #

Good choice on the Who team's part, I was surprised at first but just look at what happened to the last relatively unknown actor that took on the role, a certain guy called David Tennant, I think it's another stroke of genius decision.

I wanted David to carry on but we've still the 4 specials this year and then i will will look forward to 2010 and our new doctor.

Posted by LM (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 09:26 AM GMT #

Not sure about the hair - far too floppy and admittedly my reaction was "WHO?" but maybe that's a good thing - I seem to recall being a unsure as to how David could ever follow Chris so I'm just going to wait to see. Though still gutted David's leaving the show!

Posted by GailT (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 10:23 AM GMT #

Im looking forward to it, with the Moff in charge, im hoping for a modern take on Tom Bakers Hinchcliffe years, and I think Matt could make it his own.

Posted by Spike (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 11:49 AM GMT #

interesting choice. I must say he looked more human in the clips they showed of his other work. only problem is that the doctor keeps getting younger - who's next a Harry Potter type schoolboy?

Posted by formulaonefiend (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 12:23 PM GMT #

What is all this obsession with his looks ? The Doctor has never been a part that's depended on a good looking lead - if it had, there would have been some very strange choices.
It's character that counts.
I'm glad they picked a relative unknown. You can think of him as the Doctor straight off rather than thinking of him by name.

Posted by Sue (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 01:00 PM GMT #

All these people saying they hope he pulls it off are degenerates.

Go to a porn site for that sort of stuff.

I'll never make the mistake I made again when George Lazenby became Bond and I said, "Could have been worse, could have been that tit out of The Saint"

Posted by Clarry (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 03:27 PM GMT #

All of you complaining about his hair...you do know that hair can be changed for roles right? I mean it's not like Matt Smith had the same hair in Ruby in the Smoke as he did in the Confidential episode.

He seems to be a serious actor and seriously? Are you joking on the ugly comments? He's not hideous and name me ONE doctor who was actually attractive to everyone? Tennant doesn't work because guess what? I don't find him attractive, or Christopher Eccleston either. Lots of people find both of them attractive. I didn't go all freak out because I think Tennant is missing a chin or because I think Eccleston had goofy ears.

They were good actors and did the role well.

I'm sure Matt with do the role well also. Give him a change before foaming at the mouth.

Posted by Beth (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 03:31 PM GMT #

You know, I bet a lot of Dr Who fans who'd watched since Hartnell's day - or even Pertwee's early days felt bad when Peter Davison took on the role. I bet they felt as old and ancient as I do today...
BUT...
Peter Davison was MY doctor. I was around watching Tom Baker but it wasn't till Peter Davison took over that I started imagining my ten year old self stowing away in the Tardis. If Matt Smith inspires ten year olds that's great. Millions of Who-lovers have coped with Doctors who're younger than them since New Who started. Millions of them coped before.

We can do it... us thirty somethings and forty somethings who think we own Who. We can support a Doctor younger than ourselves! Go on Matt! Sock it to us! Prove we're right to have faith!

Posted by Liz (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 03:37 PM GMT #

I have loved the relaunch of Dr Who from Billie Piper and Chris Eccleston through to DT and Catherine Tate. There have been episodes where I've thought that they weren't as good as usual but when I thought about it and compared it to everything else on British TV, I realised that even a "bad" episode of Who was ten times better then most TV we have at the moment.

The really good thing is that (to me anyway) there has not been one episode that "The" Moff wrote that I didn't really enjoy. Even when it wasn't as good as usual it was never bad enough to drive me away. In fact it usually just made me want to see the next episode even more.

I think that the new Dr has a lot going for him story and plot wise. I'm sure that there will be times in the show that he will have to use his characters strength of personality to overcome peoples initial lack of trust of his youth.

I've worked with disabled people in the past and when ever we've gone anywhere new socially the common mistake was that people would speak to me and assume I was in charge. I'd get questions like, "Does he take sugar?" and "What size clothes does he need?". The assumption was that they couldn't be the person in control. Lack of mobility equalled lack of mental capacity to a lot of people. This was a very common mistake and I'm sure that if the Dr turns up with an older companion that there will be many times that people will assume that the companion is in charge.

I'm now disabled myself and can see the similarities about age and disability assumptions first hand. It isn't nice being considered unable to make a choice because you're less mobile and I'm sure it's a similar feeling to be assumed to be less able because you're younger (or older).

I think that we have an ideal chance to see Who explore another actor's and producer's visions for the character. On top of that, I think I quite like the new bloke, he appears a very competent actor and he seems thrilled to have the new role. Congratulations mate :)

I am wondering whether we will see a new companion arrive in the specials or whether they will bring back an old one to help ease in the new changes? I'm hoping that they take the chance and opt for a new companion too.

Sorry if my post was all over the place but at least I know what I was meaning to say ;)

Posted by Marvelbeast (127.0.0.1) on January 05, 2009 at 04:32 PM GMT #

Reading some of these posts makes me feel frankly ashamed. Yes, he's young - deal with it. Ugly? As a straight bloke I may be unqualified to comment, but he looks perfectly normal to me. And does it matter? If Paterson Joseph had been cast NO-ONE would have been idiotic enough to complain that he was black - would they? I'm starting to wonder. SF fans are supposed to be broad minded and tolerant, and a fair few are from a section of society all too familiar with stereotypes and bigotry. Victimisation is wrong, but that's what these comments collectively amount to. Quite when we descended into a bunch of shallow pigeon-holers who judge someone's merit solely on whether or not we fancy them I don't know.

Posted by jonesthecat (127.0.0.1) on January 06, 2009 at 09:58 PM GMT #

Brilliant piece of casting IMHO. I was waiting with baited breath for the awful news that it was indeed going to be Paterson Joseph, which i would have been upset at. A relative unknown, with an obvious enthusiasim backed by Mr Moffat can only be a good thing surely!?
For the bods out there who are slating his age, are you really who fans? Shouldn't it be all about the stories, action, monsters, aliens and the like?

Posted by EvilMonkey (127.0.0.1) on January 07, 2009 at 12:23 PM GMT #

Jonesthecat worte: SF fans are supposed to be broad minded and tolerant,

I think what we've witnessed over the last few years is the complete contrast of this, but lets get this straight, it's only a small minority who are moaning! Take a look at most of the comment on here and all over the web and most seem to be happy with the casting. As for those complaining that he's not good looking enough, just goes to prove they really have a very limited understanding or knowledge of Doctor Who and it's history. As for those saying Matt Smith is too young to portray a 903 year old time lord, can one of you please explain to me how someone playing a character 877 years older than themselves is so much more difficult to imagine than a 40 year old playing a character 863 years older than themselves?

Posted by Catbadge (127.0.0.1) on January 08, 2009 at 12:12 PM GMT #

Okay, I'm just going to say it: Matt Smith looks like Edward Scissorhands crossed with the Frankenstein Monster. Yikes!

I've seen Mr. Smith act a few times and he was "okay". Very young and obviously has some growing to do, but not Hero material. I cannot imagine what the BBC is thinking. Sorry, I do not blindly accept anyone's decision. My god, the boy is absolutely homely; and I'm not just talking about his hair. Oh and yes, Dr. Who's appearance -- or at least his sexual charisma -- *does* matter to some of us women and gay men who watch the show. So all you straight guys who don't care can just go buy a freaking clue. "Dr. Who" isn't merely for straight men anymore; though it might be soon if this dude is The Doctor for long. Ack!

Posted by giftie (127.0.0.1) on January 09, 2009 at 07:35 AM GMT #

err glad to see that Dr Who fandom isn't superficial at all.... (sorry about spelling), good grief, do some of you really only want to watch the show because you fancy/want to shag the leading man?

Posted by spg (127.0.0.1) on January 10, 2009 at 10:41 AM GMT #

Giftie, I'm a woman and *I* don't care what the doctor looks like, I'm more concerned with the quality of the acting and I think Matt Smith has potential and he's not ugly!

For goodness sakes!

Posted by Beth (127.0.0.1) on January 10, 2009 at 08:06 PM GMT #

Indeed, re jonesthecat's comment that no one would have complained if the new Doctor had turned out to be black, anyone out there scanning various websites and listening to certain Doctor Who-related podcasts will probably have already heard and read several people getting awfully premature and having a go at the very idea anyway - criticising Paterson Joseph (based on not very much knowledge of his acting talents, and who knows if he was ever up for the part?) and claiming that the Doctor should never be black, or Asian, or a woman. Or a horse.

Hm... as Catbadge says, getting up on your high horse about Matt Smith being too young and supposedly Goth-looking is just as silly and pointless a debate to start as the whole race/sex one, which has turned out to be a non-starter anyway.

Do you think when they offered him the part, Matt thought 'hm, surely I don't have the gravitas to portray someone hundreds of years older than me convincingly. The Who fans will be all over me on this one! I shall not accept the job?'

Come on. Any of you out there posting who might flirt with acting would accept the job in a second were it hypothetically offered to you, regardless of whether you're fifteen or fifty. It's amazing how miserable and cynical some Who fans can be...

Cheer up! At least it wasn't Alan Davies!

Foiled again, QI man! He's been waiting for that job since about 1995!

Posted by spiderboris (127.0.0.1) on January 18, 2009 at 06:40 PM GMT
Website: http://televisionoff.blogspot.com #

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