Doctor Who: 8 Matt Smith Era Problems The New Series Should Improve Upon

2. Romance

Romance is an aspect of Doctor Who where nobody involved seems to know exactly what the rules are. Most readers will remember the incredible backlash that occurred when the 8th Doctor kissed his companion, yet the relationship between Rose and The Doctor has been responsible for some of the most heart wrenching moments of the revived series. The obvious answer would be to remove romance from the series, yet the writers seem unable to avoid it, even forcing Clara to briefly declare her feelings in the latest Christmas special. The biggest issue with romance in the 11th Doctor's era is that it often diluted characters who had so much more life in them. Once Amy gave up on her confusing feelings for The Doctor she became a much more determined and intriguing character, which fuelled Rory's transformation from an awkward and jealous fiancé into one of the greatest male companions in Doctor Who history. Unfortunately not all came away unscathed, with River Song's declining popularity throughout the last three years a sign of what was sacrificed for her relationship with The Doctor. River's highly acclaimed debut in series four introduced the fans to a character who not only had an intimate knowledge of The Doctor, but was completely independent and in control of every situation. Throughout Matt Smith's time on the show, audiences were made witness to a character development that slowly revealed that her independent nature was nothing but a front, as every decision throughout her life was inexplicably and uncontrollably linked to The Doctor. Her decision to become an archaeologist was only to become closer to The Doctor, and even her happy ending in The Forest of the Dead was retconned in favour of the 11th and River getting a final farewell. Her conclusion in series four showed her reading to her children, having moved on and found meaning in a "life" without The Doctor, and yet in series seven we see her brought out of her simulated world to be given the hope that she will see him again. When it comes time for a character to declare their love for the 12th Doctor €“ whether it be Clara Oswald, River Song or some currently unknown companion €“ let's hope that the writers remember being 100% committed to The Doctor is not enough to carry a story. The audience begged for more River Song because of her personality and chemistry as a companion, not because she makes one half of a cute couple, and if the writers are going to go to the effort of jumping through the convoluted storytelling hoops that is bringing back River back to life, they better reward themselves and the audience with a classic character. Or, alternatively, they could cut romance from the 12th Doctor's life entirely. He will probably have enough on his plate as is.