Would You Be Happy if the BBC Appointed J. Michael Straczynski as the Doctor Who Show Runner?
The question of who should be the new show runner for Doctor Who has been a subject of much debate within the British TV industry and among fans. One celebrity who has been suggested for the role is J. Michael Straczynski, best known for his work on the science fiction series Babylon 5. Let's delve into why JMS could be a great fit and the potential impacts of his appointment.
The Potential of J. Michael Straczynski
J. Michael Straczynski, often simply referred to as JMS, has a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to craft compelling, long-term story arcs. If appointed as the show runner for Doctor Who, his approach would likely bring renewed energy and depth to the show. His influence on Babylon 5 is well-documented; the show's complex narrative and its enduring legacy are testaments to his skills as a writer and director.
One of the biggest challenges currently facing the Doctor Who series is the handling of the companions. While the early seasons were lauded for their character development, subsequent seasons have not maintained this quality. JMS's ability to balance scientific intrigue with strong character arcs could help address this issue. He would not allow the "actual sci-fi" to take a back seat to character development or other elements, ensuring that both the adventure and the emotional depth are equally emphasized.
British Identity in Doctor Who
British identity plays a crucial role in the perceived quality of Doctor Who. While the show has evolved to appeal to a global audience, many argue that it should maintain its British roots. However, this does not mean that non-British talent cannot be successful. The idea that Doctor Who needs a British show runner overlooks the fact that the show has had non-British output, such as the Chibnall era. Being a great show runner is more about talent and storytelling ability than nationality. The difficulty lies in finding the right person to take the show forward successfully.
User Feedback and Future Prospects
When considering a change in show runners, user feedback is essential. Some fans, such as User X, expressed apprehension about the idea, citing the need for a radical makeover of the series. However, others, like User Y, expressed interest if the show allowed for a "markedly British programme."
Personal opinions varied widely. For instance, User Z, who mentioned Jo Lumley as a potential show runner, stated that the writing and storylines under the current team were so poor that they gave up watching after a few episodes. They were reinvigorated for a short period, but ultimately were disappointed. This sentiment highlights the pressing need for improvement in both writing and character development.
In the event that J. Michael Straczynski were appointed, the expectations would naturally depend on his performance. Many users, including User A, acknowledged that prior experience with Babylon 5 would be beneficial but also noted that having never seen the series, their feelings would be largely contingent upon the quality of the show going forward.
In conclusion, the appointment of J. Michael Straczynski as the show runner for Doctor Who could revitalize the series by enhancing its storytelling capabilities and character development. However, the critical aspect will be his execution and how it impacts viewer satisfaction. Whether the show would become a popular choice again would depend on how well it is received.