6 Times Doctor Who Was Nearly Cancelled (And The Time It Actually Was)

A dodgy music video would soon be least of Doctor Who’s worries. With viewing figures continuing to decline, and the new Doctor still not resonating with viewers, Grade was more determined than ever to be rid of the show. It’s episode count was reduced, resulting in the serialised Trial of A Time Lord, and the show was relegated to a weeknight slot, scheduled opposite the infinitely more popular Coronation Street. In short, it was sent into its new slot to die. Still not content, Grade ordered the unceremonious firing of Colin Baker, whose character he despised. Baker, rightly so, refused to return to film his regeneration scene. This lovely man deserved better.

He was replaced by the more reserved and middle-of-the-road Seventh Doctor, played by Sylvester McCoy, the final incarnation of the classic series. The era didn’t get off to a swimming start, with some very mediocre stories and a Doctor who took some time to find his footing. Not to mention showrunner John Nathan-Turner’s constant attempts to jump ship on the production, only to be dragged back on board by the BBC.

Later into his run, McCoy’s episodes saw a better reception with fans. His character had evolved, developing a darker, manipulative side, and a more popular companion had been introduced in the form of Sophie Aldred’s Ace, considered one of best Doctor Who companions of all time (and the prototype for the NuWho style of companion - less screaming, more doing). Sadly, the damage had already been done to the show’s reception, and by extension, it’s viewing figures. With John Nathan-Turner finally successfully stepping down in 1989, not one writer dared take the show on. Later that year, it was finally killed off for good by the BBC.

Or was it…?