Doctor Who Stars Embrace ‘Woke’ Backlash: ‘We’ll Piss Off So Many People’

Actress Varada Sethu, set to appear in “Doctor Who,” is embracing criticisms that the iconic science fiction series is becoming more socially aware or progressive. Sethu plays Belinda Chandra, a new companion to the Fifteenth Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa), who is starting his second season. Their eight-episode journey together starts on April 12th and will be accessible week by week in the U.S. through Disney+. In an interview with The Radio Times, Sethu stated that while the term “woke” may originate from harsh critics, it signifies that the show is making positive strides.

Sethu stated, “There have been a few references to Doctor Woke [mentions] or so, but I believe we’re on the right track when we receive comments like that.” He continued, “Woke refers to being inclusive, progressive, and caring about people. As far as I can tell, the essence of Doctor Who revolves around kindness, love, and doing what’s right.

Since 2023, there has been ongoing conversation on social media regarding Gatwa, the first non-white actor cast as The Doctor. This discussion resurfaced when it was announced that Sethu would be joining the show this season as a companion. For the first time in the series’ history, both The Doctor and his companion will not be white. Gatwa, originally from Rwanda but raised in Scotland since age 2, and Sethu, born in India but raised in England since childhood, are aware of the importance of this groundbreaking moment.

Ncuti expressed something like, “Check us out! We’re inside the Tardis now. We’re going to ruffle quite a few feathers,” she reminisced. In our dynamic, we truly are equals, interacting freely with each other. Russell was searching for someone who could challenge this omnipotent figure and not be starstruck.

For the upcoming season, while some call it Season 2, others consider it Season 15, the promotional material heavily features Belinda and her journeys alongside the Doctor. However, it’s anticipated that Ruby Sunday, last season’s companion played by Millie Gibson, will make a comeback too. Yet, details about future seasons are scarce, leaving us unsure if either of these characters will reappear.

The concept of diversity fits perfectly within the realm of Doctor Who, given its storyline revolves around a time-traveling, shape-shifting character called a Time Lord, who embarks on extraordinary journeys through various points in time, space, and alternate dimensions. Despite some vocal criticism online, Yoan Gatwa’s portrayal of the lead role has garnered nothing but praise so far. His inaugural season as the main character boasts a 94% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and there’s no reason to assume that Sethu’s tenure will be any different.

Currently, you can stream the most recent episodes of “Doctor Who” on Disney+ within the United States. Starting this coming Saturday, April 12th, a brand new season will commence, with fresh episodes being released every week up until May 31st, all available exclusively on Disney+.

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2025-04-01 17:44