Doctor Who: 11 Most Memorable Companion Exits Of The Last Decade

9. Martha Jones (Last Of The Time Lords)

As companion tenures in the TARDIS go, Martha Jones' was somewhat more turbulent than most. Throughout her adventures with the Tenth Doctor she repeatedly put her life on the line for him, took on the role of his human counterpart's maid, got a job in a shop to support them when they were stuck in 1969 and even walked the entire Earth to restore the titular Time Lord to his former glory. What a gal. All of that in itself is enough to justify a well earned break but when you consider the fact that she was also head over heels in love with the Doctor and spent the entire time trying to escape the shadow of his former companion Rose, you can't really blame her for deciding to call it a day at the end of Series 3. It's actually surprising that she lasted as long as she did. Martha's story of unrequited love makes her exit in Last of the Time Lords one of the most memorable of recent years and it was in keeping with her character that she took it upon herself to draw a line - albeit a temporary one - on her TARDIS adventures. She has always been Miss Independent and she would've qualified as a doctor much sooner had she not had her studies interrupted by a certain Time Lord. Her time with the Doctor wasn't without its hardship but she was ultimately a stronger and better person at the end of it - even if it took that long for the Doctor to realise it. In the end her family was her main priority which was refreshing and admirable to see after her predecessor's total disregard for her loved ones. It wasn't the end for Martha, of course. She made a brief stint in Torchwood before returning to aid the Doctor against the Sontarans and Davros, firmly affirming herself as one of his most loyal and dependable companions. It's unfortunate that she doesn't receive the recognition she deserves and if you're still dubious, here are 10 reasons why you should give her a break. She single-handedly walked the Earth, for Pete's sake. What does a girl have to do to get a medal around here!?