The Best And Worst Episode Of EVERY Doctor Who Series

14. Series 1

Worst: Rose

This is a controversial pick, I know, but, aside from the initial mystery surrounding the Doctor’s character, I don’t think this story does a lot right, at all. It’s a story that undermines its creepy potential with juvenile humour, choppy editing, and a childishness that was a baffling choice for such an important moment for the show - this can’t have been RTD’s best attempt to win over a new generation. If released today, this story would be torn apart by fans, and rightfully so, I’m afraid.

Dishonourable Mention: The Long Game

Best: The Empty Child / The Doctor Dances

This is what series one should look like. This is the first episode of Doctor Who I ever saw, and it gave me such bad nightmares that I knew I had to come back for more. A creepy premise, terrifying execution, and the introduction of one of the most loved characters of the revival in Jack Harkness make this a standout, and Eccleston puts forward his best pitch for what Nine should be, showcasing his full range and putting in his best performance. That ‘everybody lives!’ scene is truly iconic and euphoric, and is, in my opinion, Nine’s crowning moment.

Honourable Mention: Bad Wolf / The Parting of Ways