Peter Capaldi quits: Why it’s important now, more than ever, for the new Doctor to be progressive

As you’re probably aware, it was recently announced that Peter Capaldi is leaving Doctor Who at the end of series 10, just in time for Chris Chibnall to succeed Stephen Moffat as the new showrunner.

Whilst it will be sad to see Capaldi go, particularly as he’s often been the best thing about a show that has suffered from poor writing for a few years now, Doctor Who often manages to reinvent itself every few years and the combination of a new showrunner and new lead will help to reinvigorate it.

Yet, it’s not a time for the people behind one of the biggest shows on TV to get complacent. The world is a harsh and difficult place, with hate and prejudice being normalised by deplorable orange faced leaders. So maybe it’s finally time for the producers to cast someone in the role who’s not a white male.

Obviously, some people will disagree but with Missy proving that a Time Lord can switch genders, there’s really nothing to disagree with. Like James Bond, the role is yet to go with a more diverse lead and it’s more important than ever that they do.

TV is an increasingly diversified medium, with networks and streaming sites choosing to better represent the modern world and the BBC needs to catch up. Not just to make any sort of political stand but simply because this is the world we live in and it needs to be shown with honesty.

Since its revival Doctor Who has been one of the biggest show of the millennium and though it has done well in the past at representing minorities, it’s title character has never been played by one.

Now Stephen Moffat is stepping down, his problematic stories hopefully a thing of the past, to get a Doctor who’s a different race or gender will be a small but important step in bringing equality to this country and the world, teaching not just kids but adults too that representation matters.

I’ve personally wanted to see Chiwetel Ejiofor in the role since Matt Smith left and I still think he’d be a great shout. More than that, a woman would be incredible. Gugu Mbatha-Raw would nail it.

In conclusion, I just think it’s the time to make progress. It should’ve already happened but with the world in its current state, It’s important for TV to represent real people with courage.

Doctor Who, as the bastion of hope and the spirit of love, is the best place to start.
