10 Ways Doctor Who Was Almost Completely Different
3. ...And The Show Was Almost Cancelled When He Left
While Doctor Who's 2005 relaunch series was incredibly popular, it wasn't until David Tennant took the reigns that it became truly untouchable. He became the face of Doctor Who for a new generation, and his episodes were consistent ratings hits, with his final handful of specials hitting some spectacular numbers.
So it's really no surprise to learn that BBC bosses were unhappy to see him go, but it might surprise you to learn just how unhappy they were. So unsure of Doctor Who's future without Tennant at the forefront, BBC executives were actually considering cancelling the show outright. Thankfully, Russell T Davies came swooping in to save it, and persuaded those in charge to keep the show going.
For obvious reasons, this cancellation would've drastically changed the conclusion of the Tenth Doctor's final story, as well as preventing the show from playing out as it has done for the past nine years. It's understandable that the BBC was concerned about Tennant's departure, but as it turns out, they needn't have worried: Matt Smith's introduction was a success on all fronts, and his tenure went on to give the show a wider international appeal.