Why Matt Smith Was Chosen to Play the Eleventh Doctor in Doctor Who

Doctor Who fans may wonder how a 26-year-old actor with a theatrical background managed to land such a major role. Matt Smith's casting as the Eleventh Doctor was a strategic choice that rejuvenated the series and attracted a wider audience. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind this pivotal decision.

Unique Interpretation

Matt Smith brought a fresh and unique interpretation to the role that resonated with both the casts and producers. His audition showcased a blend of youthful energy and emotional depth, setting him apart from the previous Doctors. This unique approach allowed him to bring a new dimension to the iconic role, making him a standout choice for the part.

Age Factor

At 26, Matt Smith was the youngest actor to take on the Doctor, a role previously filled by older actors. This allowed him to embody a more youthful and whimsical persona, a departure from the older and more serious Doctors. The show's fans and critics appreciated this youthful energy, which added a new level of appeal to the series.

Theatrical Background

Smith's background in theater significantly contributed to his performance. His training in acting helped him deliver a strong and versatile performance. Whether it was comedic timing or dramatic depth, Smith was able to bring a wide range of emotions to the role. This made him particularly well-suited for the dual nature of the Doctor, often requiring a switch from lighthearted moments to serious and poignant scenes.

Chemistry with Showrunner

Steven Moffat, the showrunner at the time, found that Matt Smith's chemistry with him was crucial. Moffat was looking for an actor who could handle the complex, often quirky dialogue he had written. Smith's ability to convey the Doctor's complex emotions and to perform with authenticity was key. This strong rapport between the showrunner and cast member helped inspire confidence in the decision to cast Smith.

Versatility

Matt Smith demonstrated a remarkable range of acting skills in his audition and early performances. He could seamlessly shift from playful and energetic moments to more serious and consequential scenes. This versatility was essential for portraying the Doctor, who can be both a protector and a friend, often requiring a wide range of emotional and physical responses.

Aaron and Birkett: "Because Matt was good enough, and very different from David and Christopher."

According to Aaron and Birkett, the co-founders of the Doctor Who Stable, Matt Smith's casting was not just about his acting abilities. They emphasized that he was good enough for the role and different from the previous Doctors. Smith's chemistry with Steven Moffat, along with his unique interpretation of the role, made him the ideal choice. Despite initial reservations, Smith's Doctor eventually won over fans, showing the importance of casting the right actor for the part.

Steven Moffat: "I can say why I think he was a good choice."

Steven Moffat himself shared his thoughts on the casting decision. Initially, he was not a fan of Matt Smith's take on the Doctor. David Tennant, the previous actor, brought humor and sharp wit to the role, which Moffat appreciated. However, Matt Smith's character felt more clownie at first, and Moffat missed some of the depth brought by David Tennant. As time went on, Moffat caught a few episodes and found that Matt Smith's Doctor began to win him over. The show's charisma and the actor's abilities combined to create a Doctor that was thrilling and endearing.

Conclusion

Matt Smith's casting as the Eleventh Doctor in Doctor Who was a calculated and carefully chosen decision. His unique interpretation, youthful energy, strong background in theater, chemistry with the showrunner, and versatility made him the perfect choice to revitalize the series. Fans and critics alike came to appreciate the new and exciting Doctor that Matt Smith brought to the role. This article highlights the strategic choices behind Matt Smith's casting, making it clear why he was such a pivotal figure in the 10th and 11th seasons of Doctor Who.