Doctor Who Christmas special theories: What could happen in Joy to the World?

As a long-time fan of Doctor Who, I must say that this year’s Christmas special, Joy to the World, has me incredibly excited! The combination of a new Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa), a fresh companion (Nicola Coughlan), and the return of some familiar faces like Jonathan Aris’s Silurian hotel manager is simply tantalizing.

Forget presents, turkeys and trees, all we want for Christmas is the Doctor Who Christmas special!

Fortunately, the eagerly awaited “Joy to the World” is not too distant, and with hints and sneak peeks from writer Steven Moffat and producer Russell T Davies, along with the recently revealed complete cast lineup, we can engage in speculation about what might transpire (to clarify – we have not watched the episode as of yet, so these are all conjectures).

In this upcoming episode, we’ll be focusing on the adventures of the Fifteenth Doctor, portrayed by Ncuti Gatwa, and an exciting new character named Joy, played by Nicola Coughlan. Together, they will find themselves in a hotel chain that has ingeniously utilized time travel for profit, offering historical stays to its customers.

There’s a Silurian, there’s a dinosaur, and there’s a character named after a Bond girl. What’s not to love?

At present, let me share some ideas regarding potential events in the Doctor Who Christmas episode for this year.

Set-up of a Villengard arc in season 15?

As a dedicated cinephile, I’ve gathered some intriguing details thus far. In the upcoming Christmas special, there’s a mysterious suitcase linked to the enigmatic corporation, Villengard. Over Moffat’s episodes, we’ve seen Villengard evolve from a passing reference into a sinister force in the cosmos. This could very well be the setup for Villengard becoming the chief antagonist in season 15, adding another layer of intrigue to the narrative.

It’s not too far-fetched to imagine that it could happen. Although Joy to the World may tell its own unique tale, Doctor Who Christmas specials, such as “The Church on Ruby Road,” have a history of introducing new puzzles and storylines – with the most notable being the enigma surrounding Mrs. Flood’s (Anita Dobson) identity, which was first introduced in last year’s holiday episode.

Villengard seems like an ideal way to do that.

If that event occurs, there’s a good chance Moffat might pen several episodes for season 15 since Villengard is one of his creations. However, keep in mind that statements like his suggesting “Joy to the World” could be his final episode should be taken with a grain of salt. It’s possible we’ll see him returning sooner than expected.

A Bond connection?

Doctor Who Christmas special theories: What could happen in Joy to the World?

Upon examining the cast list with confirmation, James Bond enthusiasts could spot a familiar name – Sylvia Trench, portrayed by Niamh Marie Smith.

Sylvia Trench was the inaugural female character in the James Bond movie series. Actress Eunice Gayson originally portrayed her, appearing in the initial two Bond movies, Dr. No and From Russia with Love, opposite Sean Connery.

Could it be possible for a character similar to Bond or an interpretation of hers to show up in a Doctor Who Christmas special? Or perhaps a nod to her character will be included? Previously, Doctor Who has shown tribute to Bond, as evident with the Jodie Whittaker story titled Spyfall. However, incorporating such a character could elevate this homage to an unprecedented level.

It’s worth noting that writer Moffat has shown a strong affection for the Bond series, having even collaborated with Mark Gatiss on a concept for a 007 film in the past. Quite intriguing, indeed!

A new recurring character?

Doctor Who Christmas special theories: What could happen in Joy to the World?

It’s quite common, indeed almost traditional, for a Doctor Who character to make their first appearance during Christmas specials. This could be an opportunity for you as well.

Christmas offers an ideal opportunity for viewers to develop affection for a fresh, reappearing character, as exemplified by Millie Gibson’s Ruby Sunday, following Catherine Tate’s Donna Noble.

However, it’s not the character of Joy played by Nicola Coughlan that we’re focusing on. Instead, our attention is drawn to Jonathan Aris’s character, the hotel manager from the Silurian era, who has been featured significantly in previews and initial glimpses.

Could we possibly witness more appearances by the Sea Devils/Silurians, being the main focus of Doctor Who’s upcoming spin-off titled The War Between the Land and the Sea, in the future?

Parallel and alternate universes?

A physician isn’t unfamiliar with handling alternate realities, and when it comes to Moffat, he has a penchant for adding a touch of temporal confusion and chaos.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Disney Plus hinted at the show’s name through some artwork they revealed on Doctor Who Day. The artwork reads “Joy to the Worlds” instead of the original title we were expecting.

Mrs Flood?

She’s not listed among the cast members right now, but it doesn’t necessarily exclude the possibility of an unexpected performance by Mrs. Flood.

Could it be that the character who debuted at The Church on Ruby Road during last year’s Christmas special, sporting a fur coat reminiscent of an East 17 music video, is planning to return and cause trouble for this year’s Christmas celebrations?

Death?!

As a movie aficionado, I can’t help but appreciate the allure of a poignant drama or two during the holiday season, even if it’s a tad grim. After all, who doesn’t love a good cry while nestled under a warm blanket with a cup of hot cocoa? Just take a look at those soap operas!

Among some enthusiastic Doctor Who viewers, there’s been a growing sentiment that the show should present more life-threatening situations in recent times. It just might be Steven Moffat, master of tugging at the heartstrings of Whovians, who could deliver on this demand.

Always remember the unforgettable moment when Kylie Minogue’s character, Astrid, sacrificed herself by falling to her death in the movie “Voyage of the Damned,” in order to save the Doctor.

Moffat hints that Coughlan will deliver an emotionally powerful performance as Joy in Joy to the World, making us wonder if her character’s fate might be dire. Wishing you all a merry Christmas!

2024-12-09 00:04