Most fans have always felt that those who have played the Doctor tend to make the decision to leave just when theyve made the role truly their own. That's better than over staying your welcome, of course, but very rarely do fans think that the time is right. Christopher Eccleston was excellent as the angry, hate-fuelled Doctor, but he played the role for such a short period of time that when the change came, it wasn't as heart wrenching as those that have followed. When he left, fans were quickly greeted by David Tennant and that's where things got really interesting. That's not to discount Eccleston for one second, but Tennant is where the revived series really hit its stride. Every Doctor Who fan has "their Doctor" and for many, The Time of the Doctor was their first interaction with the grief felt when "their Doctor" regenerates into someone new. It's an emotional time, even for those who fail to admit it. Matt Smith's exit from the TARDIS was met with as much shock and sadness as that of David Tennant's. Peter Capaldi could well be a different animal. He was already known for his portrayal of the sharp, abrasive, foul-mouthed spin doctor, Malcolm Tucker, in the BBC's series The Thick of It, but is that the role he wants to be remembered for above all else? At the age he is right now, the oldest Doctor since William Hartnell, he could easily go for six to seven more years. He played Malcolm Tucker for seven years on and off and lets not forget, Doctor Who is known for the odd break with both David Tennant and Matt Smith experiencing breaks in their respective runs. Its unlikely that Peter Capaldi will ever reach the time spent in the TARDIS by Tom Baker, but could he make a play for second place? Having watched Series 8 more than once, most viewers would certainly hope so. The future is very exciting indeed. Can you think of any other reasons why Peter Capaldi could be one of, if not the greatest Doctor ever? Leave your comments below.
