I love Doctor Who, I really do. You need only look at
the list of other articles I've written to see how frequently I bring the show up and write about it. But I must admit, I've been sitting on this one for a while, but I have to let it out now. Steven Moffat has ruined Doctor Who. I know, a strong claim, especially seeing Moffat's long history of excellent writing. But seriously, he's ruined the show. Completely. If you don't believe me, please allow me to explain my reasonings.
Note: This article does not necessarily represent the views of WhatCulture as a whole. Rather, the author is solely responsible for the content. This article will list eight different things Moffat has done which - I feel, as do many others - have contributed to the downfall of Doctor Who. Each item will be presented in a manner as
snarky and sarcastic as possible.
8. "Thank You" For Stereotyping Women
Moffat's first episode for the revived series - The Empty Child/The Doctor Dances - was really good, and introduced us to a wonderful young character named Nancy, a girl trying to save her little brother. So far, so good. Then he gave us 'The Girl in the Fireplace', wherein the Doctor meets Madame de Pompadour, who was characterized as being flirtatious, overconfident, and a little bit arrogant. But you know what, that's what she was probably like. Two series later, we were introduced to River Song in 'Silence of the Library/Forest of the Dead'. River was portrayed as being flirtatious, overconfident, and a little bit arrogant. Then he became showrunner, and created a companion named Amy Pond, who was flirtatious, overconfident, and a little bit arrogant. Finally, just a few episodes ago we got Jenna-Louise Coleman portraying Clara Oswin Oswald, and she was portrayed as being... flirtatious, overconfident, and a little bit arrogant. Seriously, what?! How come every woman in this show has suddenly become exactly the same stereotype, someone who on the surface appears to be a strong willed, independent woman, but really is only doing this out of their desire to impress and be loved by a man? Every. Single. Woman. And it's not like he's making leaps and bounds to improve the portrayal of women in the show. For a good instance of that, look to Sarah Jane Smith, a truly unique companion who transcended the all too common image of a female on Doctor Who being there simply to get in trouble and scream. Speaking of a terrible image of women....