Every Modern Season Of ‘Doctor Who’ Ranked

Rating Every Modern Season of “Doctor Who”

Since its revival in 2005, “Doctor Who” has cemented its status as a beloved cornerstone of modern television. With its mix of compelling characters and captivating sci-fi, horror, and fantasy narratives, the show has garnered a dedicated fanbase. However, as Jodie Whittaker departs from the titular role, and the series undergoes significant changes, including the return of David Tennant and Russell T. Davies, it’s worth revisiting and ranking the 13 modern seasons of this iconic show.

13. Series 11 – Jodie Whittaker

Series 11 marked a significant turning point with the introduction of Jodie Whittaker as the first female Doctor. While this was a momentous occasion, the season faced criticism for its flat companion characters and a perceived lack of story progression. Despite a few noteworthy historical episodes, it fell short in terms of stakes and the signature elements that define “Doctor Who,” such as recurring villains and narrative complexity.

12. Series 12 – Jodie Whittaker

Series 12 started on a more promising note but ultimately left fans disappointed. While episodes like “Fugitive of the Judoon” sparked intrigue with a season-long mystery, the controversial finale, “The Timeless Children,” divided the fanbase. Showrunner Chris Chibnall attempted to address prior complaints but introduced new continuity issues, leading to a mixed reception.

11. Series 13 – Jodie Whittaker

Series 13 brought hope with a serialized storytelling approach, a departure from previous seasons. However, it still struggled to reach the heights fans anticipated. Rushed storytelling left audiences struggling to connect with characters, and despite a strong send-off in “The Power of the Doctor,” the season couldn’t fully recover.

10. Series 8 – Peter Capaldi

Series 8 marked a shift with Peter Capaldi portraying an older and more cynical Doctor. While it eventually gained acceptance, early reactions were lukewarm. The season delivered solid storytelling but lacked standout moments, leading to its relative obscurity in fans’ memories.

9. Series 10 – Peter Capaldi

Series 10 saw Peter Capaldi’s Doctor find his footing, but it mostly maintained the quality of his first season. Fans appreciated character arcs, especially for the Doctor and the Master. While it had its moments, the season struggled to stand out, except for Steven Moffat’s classic magic in the two-part finale.

8. Series 7 – Matt Smith

Matt Smith’s final season offered a mixed bag in terms of quality. It featured exceptional episodes like “The Angels Take Manhattan” alongside less memorable ones like “Dinosaurs on a Spaceship.” Nevertheless, it provided a strong ending for Smith’s Doctor, with special episodes like “The Day of the Doctor” and “The Time of the Doctor.”

7. Series 1 – Christopher Eccleston

Christopher Eccleston’s sole season as the Doctor set a strong foundation for the show’s revival. Early episodes receive positive responses, but it truly took off with “The Empty Child” and “The Parting of the Ways,” solidifying its appeal and paving the way for future success.

6. Series 6 – Matt Smith

Following Matt Smith’s impressive debut season, Series 6 promised more significant scares and story arcs. While its consistency varied, it delivered some of the era’s best episodes. The darker tone and focus on companions enriched the narrative, though the overarching plot became convoluted toward the end.

5. Series 3 – David Tennant

Series 3 initially struggled to connect with fans but soared in its second half, featuring some of David Tennant’s best moments as the Doctor. Notably, “Blink” introduced one of the show’s most memorable monsters.

4. Series 9 – Peter Capaldi

Series 9 showcased Peter Capaldi’s Doctor at his best, with consistent thrills and impactful character development. The multipart stories added depth to the narrative, making it a poignant and emotionally resonant season.

3. Series 5 – Matt Smith

Despite skepticism after Russell T. Davies and David Tennant’s departures, Series 5 thrived under Steven Moffat and Matt Smith’s leadership. It delivered tight storytelling and a perfect balance between overarching plots and standalone episodes, captivating audiences.

2. Series 4 – David Tennant

David Tennant’s final season, Series 4, offered a fitting conclusion to Russell T. Davies’ era. Iconic episodes like “Silence in the Library” and “Journey’s End” showcased the show’s brilliance. It set the stage for future developments while delivering pure joy to viewers.

1. Series 2 – David Tennant

David Tennant’s portrayal of the Doctor in Series 2 is widely celebrated as a match made in heaven. Russell T. Davies’ storytelling combined nostalgia with new narratives, laying the groundwork for “Doctor Who’s” future success. The season impressed fans with its diverse stories, memorable moments, and emotional resonance.

In retrospect, each modern season of “Doctor Who” has contributed to the show’s enduring legacy, offering unique experiences and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of Whovians. As the show continues to evolve, its rich history serves as a testament to its enduring popularity and storytelling prowess.