‘Doctor Who’ season 9: Sylvester McCoy’s comments about possible female Doctor draw attention
The discussion about whether or not “Doctor Who” will ever have a female Doctor is one that has existed in one way or another over the past few year now, and everyone has their own opinion on it. This apparently includes former series star Sylvester McCoy, and his opinion is one that is certainly raising eyebrows over whether or not he makes good points, or if he is trying a little too hard to be the judge, jury, and executioner on what is defined “cultural.”
We’ll come back with our take in a minute. For now, let’s just go ahead and take a look at what he actually said in an interview with the Mirror:
“I’m a feminist and recognise there are still glass ceilings in place for many women, but where would we draw the line? A Mr Marple instead of Miss Marple? A Tarzanette? … I’m sorry, but no – Doctor Who is a male character, just like James Bond. If they changed it to be politically correct then it would ruin the dynamics between the doctor and the assistant, which is a popular part of the show. I support feminism, but I’m not convinced by the cultural need of a female Doctor Who.”
Just on the basis of opinion alone it is easy to dismiss McCoy’s comments, but also we question whether any one person can define what others want? We know that there is a demand for a female Doctor among many, and it could happen at some point in the future.
Our opinion on the subject is ultimately fairly simple: We do not necessarily think that the show should actively look at just women for the role, but we also do not think that they should look at just men. We feel like all candidates should be considered regardless of gender or race, and then the best overall candidate chosen for the role. You go with whoever you are inspired by, and if there is an actress who would be an excellent female Doctor, why deprive us of that?
As per usual, we welcome some of your thoughts on this subject below, and you can also head over here to see us taking on the latest tabloid rumor regarding Jenna Coleman’s future on the series. Also, sign up here to gather up some more TV updates on all we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: BBC.)
Dom Cunningham
July 26, 2015 @ 8:37 pm
Personally, I feel like a female Doctor would be one of those things that people get really excited about, but once they get it, they feel underwhelmed; the novelty would wear off quickly.
That, or worse; the female Doctor, even if it’s the best Doctor ever, will be defined by her gender. The gender will be the first thing to come up in any discussion and much of the dialogue in the show will draw attention to it. That’s what I’m worried about.
But honestly, there are things I want to see in the show much more than a female Doctor, not that it’s a bad idea.