Doctor Who: 12 Cool Details Russell T Davies Just Revealed About New Earth & Gridlock

12. New Earth Was Chosen As The Series 2 Opener Because It's A Comedy

After appearing for a quick post-regeneration scene at the end of 2005's The Parting of the Ways, David Tennant's first full episode was festive special The Christmas Invasion. But his actual debut series didn't kick off until New Earth in 2006.

However, the decision to open Series 2 with New Earth wasn't always set in stone: according to Davies, Tooth and Claw - which ended up being the second episode - was also a prime contender.

In fact, this was such a tough decision to make that a "series opener" edit of Tooth and Claw was even put together. This hybrid version of the episode used the first scene of New Earth - where Jackie and Mickey say goodbye to Rose - just before the titles, with Tooth and Claw running as normal afterwards.

Ultimately though, New Earth was chosen as the first episode because of its lighter, more comedic tone, with Davies adding that Tooth and Claw was "too dark" to be given that coveted premiere slot.