Where Should I Start? A Doctor Who Guide For Beginners

If you’re feeling a little intimidated by a show with 53 years of history, don’t. Here’s a A Doctor Who guide for beginners that will you get all caught up.

Congratulations. You’ve decided to watch Doctor Who, and now your life can begin. But I get it. For a show that’s been airing for half a century, it can be extremely hard to know where to start. Luckily, we’ve prepared this Doctor Who guide for beginners, so you can go in ready.

In case you don’t have the next consecutive 4 years to spend bingeing all the past seasons, we’ve complied a list of the best episodes, and a few viewing tips, to keep you in the know.

These are the best Doctor Who episodes to jump into when you need to catch up.

“An Unearthly Child” (1963) – Sometimes, it’s best to begin at the beginning. In theory, this is the best place to start, but practically it can prove daunting. So, just check in here, and then you can skip around. Besides, it is a fun jaunt to meet the very first Doctor (William Hartnell) who was much more grouchy than his modern heritors.

“Spearhead from Space” (1970) – This is the third Doctor’s first story, and coincidentally, the first episode in color.

“The Ark in Space” (1975) and “City of Death” (1979) – These are also two of Steven Moffatt’s picks, so you definitely want to check into these. When the writer of a show tells you to watch an episode, you do it. Don’t delay.

“The Empty Child” (2005) – This is among Matt Smith’s most essential. You know if the eleventh Doctor himself is recommending something, it’s worth a shot.

“Rose” (2005) – This is the first episode in the 21st century reboot and also brings you the beautiful Billie Piper as the new Doctor’s companion. The new, modern doctor is played by a brooding Christoper Eccleston.

“The Eleventh Hour” (2010) – Here’s where we meet the eleventh doctor, Matt Smith. He’s been called the most accessible doctor, and his floppy hair and twinkling eyes are only a few of his best characteristics.

“The Snowmen” (2012) – Although not as easy as “The Eleventh Hour,” this is a good place to start to get up to date with the (sorta) current companion, Clara Oswald.

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Here’s some viewing tips and need-to-know bits.

You should refer to him as “Doctor” or “the Doctor,” not “Doctor Who.” “Doctor Who” is the question, not the name.
He has an actual name, but only reveals it in exigent circumstances, and never, ever to audiences.
The show has been running since the sixties, but most Whovians only consider the 21st century reboot. There have been 9 seasons thus far, and a new season debuts in April.
A “regeneration” is when one Doctor “turns into” the next. Screenrant elaborates, saying it can, “occur willingly or as the result of dire circumstances. All memories stay while personality quirks and traits change. However, the Doctor can learn traits from previous incarnations.”
Christmas specials are part of the overall story, with necessary information. Watch them.
Seasons 1-8 of Doctor Who are available on Amazon Prime Instant Video and Netflix (in the US).

As the longest running science-fiction show in the history of television, it can feel like a daunting endeavor. It shouldn’t. It is absolutely achievable – especially since we have 3 whole months until the new season premieres.

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