Doctor Who: 12 Best Twelfth Doctor Episodes

The Twelfth Doctor’s last stand was beautifully touching, as he sacrificed himself without hope, without witness, and without reward. The fact that he gave his life for a small group of terrified humans instead of the fate of the universe proved once again the immense depth of his kindness and heroism. His enthralling speech to Missy and the Master beforehand was another defining moment, in which he bared his soul in a desperate, final effort to convince his best friend to stand with him. Needless to say, Capaldi’s performance of the material was astounding.

It was a treat to see Missy and the Master interacting with each other, as John Simm’s incarnation lusted over his future self and Missy struggled to choose a side. Their last, self-destructive scene would have served as a masterful final end for the character, and was made all the more tragic by the Doctor’s unawareness of his friend’s decision to help him at the end.

Pearl Mackie was superb at portraying Bill’s horror and grief at what had been done to her, as she came to a heartbroken realisation that people would always be afraid of her. The farewells between the Doctor and his friends were genuinely poignant, especially Nardole’s admission that he would never be able to find the words. However, the episode ultimately managed to bring joy out of despair, as Bill was given a happy ending and ensured the Doctor’s regeneration with a tear.