The Longest Tenure: The Actors Who Have Played Doctor Who and Their Histories

Introduction:

Doctor Who is one of the longest-running science fiction series in the world, with many actors taking on the iconic role of the Doctor. Among them, some have played the part for exceptionally long tenures, contributing significantly to the series' legacy. In this article, we delve into the longest-serving actors in the Doctor Who series and explore the remarkable journeys of these talented performers.

The Longest Tennure - Tom Baker (Fourth Doctor)

Tom Baker, the fourth actor to play the role, is a household name in the Doctor Who fanbase. He was the Doctor for a whopping seven years, from 1974 to 1981, across Season 12 to Season 18. This period not only saw the longest tenure but also filled with memorable episodes, such as the seven-part "Arc of Time" story arc, which is often considered one of the best stories in the series.

Bernard Cribbins: A 44-Year Longevity

Bernard Cribbins holds a unique distinction in the Doctor Who annals. Not only did he appear as the companion Tom Campbell in the second Doctor Who film in 1966, but he also played Wilfred Mott, a companion to the 10th and 11th Doctors, spanning a remarkable 44 years from 2007 to 2010. His long and continuous involvement in the series is truly exceptional. Moreover, Cribbins is the only actor to have appeared in both the cinema and the TV versions of Doctor Who, making his contribution even more significant.

Other Notable Actors with Long Tenures

While Tom Baker and Bernard Cribbins stand out, several other actors have also made significant contributions to the series. Here are a few notable mentions:

Jon Pertwee, the third actor to play the Doctor, held the role for five years, placing him in second place after Tom Baker. His tenure from 1970 to 1974 included some of the most iconic stories, such as "The Kul Goth Incident" and "The Brain of Morbius." Sylvester McCoy held the role for the shortest time compared to those mentioned, but he played the Doctor for six years, from 1987 to 1996. During his tenure, he appeared in numerous episodes and contributed significantly to the series' continuity.

Fun Facts About Doctor Who Actors

Some of the actors who have played the Doctor also have interesting personal histories outside the show. For instance, Bernard Cribbins starred as Dangerous Davies in the film of the same name. Additionally, he was the narrator for all 60 episodes of the Wombles. This versatility and range of performances further highlight the talents of these actors.

Conclusion

The Doctor Who series has seen many talented actors take on the Doctor's role, each leaving their mark on this beloved franchise. Tom Baker and Bernard Cribbins stand out due to their long and significant contributions, marking memorable chapters in the series' history. As Doctor Who continues to captivate audiences worldwide, it is fascinating to look back at the rich legacy of these actors and the impact they have had on the show.