Ncuti Gatwa Shines Just as Bright as Eccleston in Doctor Who Exit

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Warning: Major spoilers ahead for the Doctor Who episode The Reality War.

It’s been close to two decades since Christopher Eccleston transformed into David Tennant in the show Doctor Who, and amazingly, those moments still feel fresh and vibrant, even though I might have watched them several times over – just trying to clarify!

As a movie critic, let me share my personal experience: The intense emotions of bewilderment and heartache struck me deeply at the tender age of four, when the hero I had grown attached to over 13 captivating episodes vanished without a trace, only to be replaced by an imposter wearing his familiar attire and sporting an infectious grin.

Reflecting upon the past two decades, I’ve gained a deeper insight into why talented actors like Christopher Eccleston and Ncuti Gatwa might decide to depart from Doctor Who. The ambiguity surrounding the Disney Plus deal and the series’ overall future, coupled with an abundance of promising career prospects, certainly play a role. Yet, as I watched him conclude his journey as the Fifteenth Doctor this weekend, there was still no lessening of the emotional impact as he exited gracefully after only two seasons on the show.

I can’t help but express my disappointment that this exceptionally skilled actor has chosen to depart from his Doctor role without encountering the Daleks, Cybermen, or the Master. Additionally, it’s hard not to notice that only two seasons of eight episodes each – with three episodes lacking the Doctor’s presence – represents less than a third of what we experienced during David Tennant and Matt Smith’s tenures as the Doctor.

In short: he deserved more time.

However, this isn’t meant for lamenting or grieving; instead, it’s about rejoicing, as Gatwa may not have needed more time as The Doctor, but he truly earned it.

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This isn’t a sad reflection, but rather a joyful tribute, as although Gatwa deserved to continue as The Doctor, he didn’t require the role in any way.

Following two seasons, the actor from Sex Education has earned an equal level of recognition and esteem as any other Doctor, given his significant influence on the show, character, and fanbase. In my opinion, he easily fits into the category of actors like Christopher Eccleston, sharing the limelight with Jo Martin and Paul McGann in the Doctor Who pantheon.

In a modernized revamp of the series, Christopher Eccleston’s portrayal of the Doctor made him feel incredibly relatable to 21st-century viewers. Blending youthful exuberance, happiness, impeccable comic delivery, and yet, raw emotions such as sorrow and uncontrolled anger, he created a Doctor who seemed more authentic and, in a way, human, than any incarnation before him.

Despite continuously displaying enigmatic and unforeseeable behavior, transitioning swiftly from fits of rage to speeches imbued with optimism within a single episode, he emerged as a multifaceted character that rivaled the depth found in contemporary television dramas.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d put it this way: Just like Ncuti Gatwa, I’ve seen my fair share of TV shows where enigmatic, heroic characters are almost commonplace. But the actor has managed to make the Doctor stand out from the crowd and feel fresh – how? By fearlessly, unabashedly embodying his unique self.

This Doctor exhibits an extraordinary level of genuine happiness, from using endearing terms like “babes” and “honey,” to displaying exuberance in public by jumping, and playfully skipping around the TARDIS ramps in private.

Despite some traditionalists finding issue with his changing appearance each episode, this aspect is integral to the character. Previously, the Time Lord’s uniform fostered a feeling of detachment, but Gatwa’s Doctor embraces the places and cultures he encounters, immersing himself fully in them. He’s eager to experience everything visually, auditorily, and tactilely.

The essence lies in the emotions here. While there have been numerous humorous comments about Gatwa’s perfectly timed single tear, there’s something more profound beneath it. Though the Doctor has always prioritized life and strived to save as many as possible, this situation is distinct. For the Fifteenth Doctor, every life is revered and honored, each loss is deeply mourned, and he carries the weight of that significance much more intensely.

In this series, every secondary character seems fully developed, and their actions carry significant impact. For instance, in The Story and the Engine, when Omo (portrayed by Sule Rimi) deceives The Doctor by leading him into a trap set by the Barber, instead of just expressing anger or making threats, Gatwa powerfully conveys his pain and grief, explaining to Omo that he’s lost his sanctuary.

Rather than diminishing the Doctor’s power, this actually amplifies it. He displays his fears, sorrows, and traumas yet emerges triumphant, offering forgiveness along the way. His emotions are evident, yet he remains indomitable and unyielding in his quest.

Additionally, he openly displays the Doctor’s flaws, particularly his ego and tendency to make assumptions, and in The Robot Revolution, it was remarkably invigorating to see Belinda challenge him for these actions and for taking her blood without consent. Furthermore, it was heartening to witness the Doctor swiftly apologize for his mistakes, something that not all Martha Jones fans may agree the Doctor does often enough.

In the 2020s, this method of portraying the Doctor as more transparent, genuine, and emotionally open than ever before seems fitting for the character’s development. As the series progresses, it appears that a being with two hearts ought to emote and express openly. Thus, Gatwa has established a fresh legacy for the Doctor Who franchise, and it’s hoped that this change will positively impact the show moving forward.

Before we delve into any other aspects, let’s acknowledge that Gatwa is the first Black man to take on this role. While I may not be qualified to comment on how his portrayal has been handled, witnessing him skillfully tackle the complex layers of racism and prejudice throughout history has been a powerful inspiration. His words in Lux encapsulate it best: “I have brought down worlds. Sometimes I let people bring down their own world. Until then, I exist within it and I radiate.

Without a doubt, “Luminous” is an apt description for this Doctor. He’s gleamed, flashed, and radiated brighter than a supernova. Spanning 18 episodes, each with their own unique mood, genre, and standard, he has consistently been the beacon of light for me. His radiance and vitality have been contagious, capturing attention and holding it in a mesmerizing grip.

It’s incredibly painful to see him leave so quickly, but I firmly trust that the impact and brilliance he’s brought to Doctor Who will continue to illuminate the show for many years ahead.

Doctor Who is available to stream on BBC iPlayer in the UK and on Disney+ outside of the UK.

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2025-06-01 10:34