Doctor Who: 12 NuWho Characters Who Should've Been Companions

5. Perkins

Almost the opposite of Psi, Perkins starts out quite friendly with the Doctor as they share their mutual intrigue into goings on in Series 8 episode Mummy on the Orient Express. Perkins has been looking into the case himself and seems to appreciate the Doctor's willingness to investigate. At least, initially... As the story unfolds, Perkins becomes increasingly uncomfortable with Twelve's brash manner, questioning the Time Lord's behaviour as the Mummy claims more and more victims. He sees the Doctor's darker aspects and is put off by them, even if the Doctor's respect for Perkins doesn't seem to change. Perkins does receive an offer to travel in space and time, under the pretense of fixing the TARDIS for the Doctor. Perkins becomes one of the few characters to reject the chance to travel with the Doctor, the darker aspects of the TIme Lord clearly playing on his mind. This is another instance of the life and actions of the adventurer putting off potential companions, as with Joan Redfern. Don't count out a return for Perkins though - Frank Skinner (who plays him) is a huge fan of the show, and reportedly found having to turn down the chance to travel on the TARDIS heartbreaking.