Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
THE ALL-TIME LORD
David Tennant pips Jodie Whittaker to title of best Doctor Who in mega poll
DAVID Tennant has been voted the best-ever Doctor Who.
The Scottish actor finished narrowly ahead of his nearest challenger Jodie Whittaker in a poll of more than 50,000 people for Radio Times.
Just 95 votes separated the two stars, who each received 21%. David was chosen by 10,518 people compared to Whittaker’s 10,423.
Jodie is currently starring as the Doctor and is the first woman to take on the role, while Tennant played the part in the sci-fi series between 2005 and 2010.
Survey respondents were asked to choose between the 13 Time Lords. Peter Capaldi came third followed b y Ma t t Smith, meaning the four most recent Doctors topped the poll.
Tom Baker, who played the role in the 1970s, was fifth.
Dr Who Online editor Sebastian J. Brook said David’s popularity is down to his role in making the franchise a bigger success in the United States.
“David’s Doctor was the first that really made it internationally,” he said.
“He also helped even out the fanbase. It used to be about 70-80% male back in the day, and now it’s pretty much 50/50. Jodie helped that as well, so I’m pleased she’s so high up on the list.
“For many, Tom Baker is the top one. It’s interesting he isn’t top three.
“David Tennant has pipped him to the post. His stories are really well written as well, under Russell T. Davies.”
In 2013, a BB C America poll ranked Tom Baker as the top Doctor, with David Tennant in second. In the new poll, Peter Davison, who played the Time Lord in the 1980s, came bottom with just 351 votes.
Hu w Fu l l e r t o n , sci-fi and fantasy editor at Radiotimes. com, said: “Over a decade after he left the Tardis behind and after nearly 50,000 votes were cast, it’s clear David Tennant is still Doctor Who fans’ perfect 10.
“But with Jodie Whittaker hot on his heels and a great showing for other recent Doctors like Peter Capaldi, it looks like the fans also hold other Time Lords close to their hearts.”
WORLDWIDE SUCCESS Current star Jodie