Going forth: time for Tom Baker to take spotlight!
As Doctor Who’s 50th year flies by (it’ll be November before we know it!), it’s time to go fourth with Doctor #4.
Tom Baker took over the TARDIS circa 1974, after the Third Doctor’s fatal exposure to radiation poison in Planet of the Spiders. With a name like that he was asking for trouble as the latest Time Lord took it in his stride starting as he meant to go on. Eager to explore, Tom Baker’s whimsical and often unpredictable multi-coloured scarf wearing incarnation is the longest standing to date.
Never short of a jelly baby or two the Fourth Doctor encountered the Daleks, the Master, the Zygons (they’re coming back y’know?) and countless other iconic foes over his 7 epic years at the helm of the TARDIS. With loyal friends, such as Sarah Jane, K-9 and Romana, at his side, the Fourth Doctor’s eccentric style established a strong fanbase and cultural presence as the show continued to go from strength to strength. In fact his 1979 adventure City of Death holds the title of being the most watched Doctor Who story in its 50 year history as 16 million tuned in to see its final instalment on 20th October 1979!
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Share your 50th anniversary hopes and dreams in our dedicated discussion…
As a Tom Baker/DR Who fan, I can only say that there has been no other actor who has personified the Role of the Rogue Timelord than Tom has. Mr Baker is the mold by which the others must aspire to (But none really ever has)in an effort to bring the character to life once more. All Dr who fans whom have never seen Tom Baker’s version are immediately encouraged to do so. The difference is both shocking and enlightening. To this day…Well Done TB!!!
@William Leas Agreed – Tom was not only a great Doctor but had the best start with the best companion and production team! A team who brought to the screen brilliant stories which entertained, scared and ultimately thrilled the audience.
Today, the production team are more interested in family trees and eastender style plots!