7. Five Realises He Must Sacrifice Himself For Peri
'The Caves of Androzani' is possibly the most critically-acclaimed Doctor Who story ever, a masterpiece of dialogue, acting and of Graeme Harper's fantastic direction. The Classic era of the show isn't exactly renowned for its moments of touching emotion, but the Fifth Doctor's final story certainly delivered some, as the Doctor realises he must sacrifice himself for his companion. Five makes it back to the TARDIS with Peri and the precious bat milk that can cure them both, but tragically, spills some of it opening the Police Box doors. There's a look of resigned melancholy from Peter Davison as we learn that he only has enough milk to save one of them; the Doctor gives Peri the last remaining bat's milk before collapsing on the floor of the TARDIS. The Doctor would later regenerate, and his sacrifice would become of the most noble acts ever committed by the character. Peter Davison was a fans' favourite in the role though, and this sacrifice came at a price; the moment when we realise he has to die is one that would influence both of Russell T Davies's Doctors, as Nine and Ten also died saving their companions.