‘Doctor Who’ season 9, episode 3 ratings lead to Peter Capaldi, Richard Madden rumors

No one makes a mountain out of a molehill quite like the folks writing articles for the British press.

Take, for example, a new story by the Daily Mirror about the future of “Doctor Who” have ratings have fallen below four million. They claim that there are discussions about moving a potential tenth season down to a series of specials similar to “Sherlock” along with a Christmas one, just as there is talk now that Peter Capaldi could walk away after two seasons to spend more time with his family. This show is an enormous commitment, so we do understand that and feel almost like this is the rumor more likely to be true. There are already rumors suggesting that Richard Madden, who ironically dated at one point Jenna Coleman, could be considered for a new season.

The same Mirror story quotes the following BBC source in suggesting just how someone could press the panic button:

“Doctor Who’s decline is very worrying and needs to be addressed. At this stage all options are being ­considered … Everyone accepts that drastic action may be needed.”

Let’s start to make sense of some of the chatter. For one, the BBC’s response to this story is right: It’s too early to make decisions on next season! Also, the ratings figures are misleading given that many people now watch the show on their own time via a recording or the internet. “Doctor Who” also remains an enormous hit internationally, and the BBC could simply air the series at a different time if they are worried about timeslot numbers.

As for Madden, we don’t know if he would be interested or not, but a casting change in the future could encourage more people to become excited in the series once again.

If you want to read our review for this weekend’s “Under the Lake,” be sure to head over to the link here! Also, you can sign up here to transmit some other news sent right to you via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: BBC.)