10 Doctor Who Moments That Broke The Fourth Wall

The Series 9 episode Sleep No More is remembered for its daring execution, particularly with its use of a framing device that sees the villain of the piece, Rassmussen, relaying important information directly to the viewer.

But this wasn't the first time a NuWho villain delivered a menacing monologue straight down the camera lens. A criminally overlooked and oft-forgotten example occurs in Series 3's The Shakespeare Code, where - right before the title sequence - the evil Carrionite, Lilith, describes her plans for global domination.

Considering that her allies are devouring an unfortunate local at this present moment, there isn't another character in the room that Lilith could possibly be talking to. Rather, this seems to be a directorial flourish that links in with the Shakespearey-ness of the episode - as in, Lilith is performing in a stage play, directly addressing the theatre audience before her.

All around, The Shakespeare Code doesn't get the love it deserves. It's full of brilliant little touches like this, making it a standout episode in Tennant's second year.