1. The Twelfth Doctor - Ben Daniels
Peter Capaldi had been under consideration as the Doctor for a long time, as far back as David Tennants departure. But while it seemed inevitable that Capaldi would finally be cast as the Twelfth Doctor, several names were held in reserve. The only one to go public about this was Ben Daniels. In an interview with Digital Spy, Daniels stated that his name was on a list of potential replacements for Matt Smith and remained so right up until the live television announcement of Capaldis casting. Daniels, a face on television for many years in programmes such as Casualty, Cutting It, A Touch of Frost and Spooks, claimed that - along with several still anonymous actors - he was kept in the frame for so long in case Capaldis contract negotiations fell through, but also that it was fairly clear from an early stage that Capaldi was the clear favourite for the role. Capaldi is such an obvious fit for the Doctor that it seems hard to imagine anyone else playing him now. His casting works on many levels. He has a deep understanding of the character, hes an acclaimed name actor' and, on a more superficial level, he provides an effective visual contrast with Matt Smith. Daniels, while accomplished in his own right, perhaps lacks these qualities to the same degree. Doctor Who has come a long way, though, when it's in the position to turn down actors of his calibre.
What do you think of this list? How would these actors have faired as the titular Time Lord? Are there any other names that could or should have been the Doctor? Let us know in the comments section below.