Class Will Flourish Through Its Independence From Doctor Who
By David Hill
One of the problems that spin-offs have is that they are inevitably compared to the original program. As such, Class is looking to stand alone within the Whoniverse.
The universe, especially in Doctor Who, is quite the large place. Being able to go anywhere, from the dawn of time to the end of the universe, and anyplace in between, gives a lot of flexibility for the show. Likewise, for a spin-off like Class, that wide expanse opens up a great deal of territory.
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That is especially important when it comes to the plan to have Class stand on its own. Instead of being held to the standards of Doctor Who, Class will be its own entity; a part of the same universe, but far enough removed to avoid any major overlap.
That is the intent that creator Patrick Ness has, as Class continues into its first season. Yes, the spin-off will be exploring that same universe, but at a specific location, during a particular point in time. And, more importantly, there will not be any disrespect to its parent program.
"“[The universe is] as big as time and space, that’s pretty roomy!” Ness said. “It’s a lot of space – I love the idea of engaging with the universe, rather than feeling any constraints. Doctor Who is literally bound [only] by time and space, and you can go anywhere and have any kind of monster and if you had a chance to make up new Doctor Who monsters, wouldn’t you? Wouldn’t you just run and run with it?”"
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Perhaps that is the best news for fans of Doctor Who, and those looking to get into Class. The show will not keep bringing the Doctor in to attract viewers, instead relying upon their own merit to draw and retain fans. Likewise, while Coal Hill School (now Academy) is a recognized part of the Whoniverse, Class will not seek to ride the coattails of Doctor Who to find success.
In the end, that is the way that it should be. Yes, there will likely be the occasional bit of overlap, but that is inevitable, and, in moderation, even desirable. What is truly important is that Class has its own identity, and is not tied in too much with the Doctor. As a show that is truly separate, and without a former Doctor Who cast member as the focal point of the program, that approach makes sense.
Next: Class Needs to Hit the Ground Running