Doctor Who: The Regeneration of the Master
By David Hill
On Doctor Who, we have seen the Doctor regenerate every time a new incarnation comes along on the show. However, that same consistent courtesy has not happened with the Master. Should that change?
Every time the Doctor is going to regenerate, that changeover to the new incarnation is shown on Doctor Who. It is understandable; after all, it is quite the dramatic moment, and a way for us to get a slight bit of familiarity with the next Doctor before the new series begins.
Yet, when it comes to the Master, it is a rare occasion that we get to see the transformation into the next incarnation happen on screen. With the regeneration of the Doctor and others depicted on the program, why would this not be the case for a key part — and one of the more important antagonists — of Doctor Who?
Here one can witness Derek Jacobi regenerate into John Simm in the episode ‘Utopia.’
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While it would be great to see the Master’s regenerations, it makes sense that we do not. In seeing these glimpses of a new character — while not knowing that they are the new Master — it heightens the mystery. We await clues as to who these beings are, until the reveal as to their identity is finally made. It is a great way to keep viewers interested and to fuel speculation.
That was certainly the case with Missy. She appeared numerous times before she revealed her true identity to the Doctor, providing a dramatic moment that would not have been there otherwise.
That does not, however, mean there should not be hints. Perhaps, as the Master (or Missy in this case) regenerates into her subsequent incarnation, we can get a glimpse of some part of the next Master. Maybe a look at the shoes, or a hand reaching for an article of clothing — something that can give us a chance to speculate even further as to who the next Master will be.
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