Why Every Classic Companion Left Doctor Who

28. Maureen O'Brien - Vicki

Vicki is notable for being the first person to be invited aboard the TARDIS. Played by Maureen O'Brien, Vicki became a surrogate granddaughter for the First Doctor. O'Brien's chemistry with William Hartnell meant that the relationship often felt more believable than the one between the Doctor and Susan.

Maureen O'Brien had a difficult time on Doctor Who, eventually complaining to producer John Wiles about the unsatisfying material she was being given. Wiles responded by deciding to write Vicki out of the show - while O'Brien was on holiday! According to Peter Purves, William Hartnell was furious about this, and it likely fueled the feud between the leading man and his producer.