Every Doctor Who Title Sequence Ranked Worst To Best (2025)

2. The Second Doctor (1967-1969)

Second Doctor Who Titles
BBC Studios

Some might consider the placement of the Second Doctor's title sequence so high on this list to be a rogue choice but there is a key reason for this decision. While the original title sequence pushed boundaries and experimented with absurd ideas, the second sequence took all those successes and improved upon them. 

The howlround effect is still present, but more refined and structured. Delia Derbyshire's theme is back but with additional sounds to complement the more layered visuals. The only major change saw the incorporation of an idea once abandoned – the image of the Doctor's face. Again, this wasn't an entirely new concept but one adapted and re-explored in order to enhance what came before. 

There was a lot of pressure riding on Patrick Troughton's run as the Second Doctor. The prospect of swapping out the main actor was a massive risk and everything about the new run had to prove that this was still the same show and that change was the key to longevity. Just like the character of the Doctor, if the core elements remain consistent across the incarnations, then no matter how many superficial changes are made, the show will always be recognised and revered by the fans. 

The Second Doctor put it best: "Life depends on change, and renewal." 

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Ellie has been part of the WhatCulture team since 2021 where she began as a freelance presenter for the WhoCulture channel. As a diehard Whovian with a BA (hons) degree in Drama and Acting, this role was the perfect opportunity for her to combine her screen presence training with her extensive Doctor Who knowledge. From there, she branched out to various other WhatCulture channels, including TrekCulture, and became a full time Content Producer/Video Presenter in 2023. Ellie is now a regular fixture on both WhoCulture and TrekCulture and has become a well respected public figure within both fandoms, building up a substantial following across her social media platforms and being given the opportunity to represent the channels and the wider communities at several industry events. Her favourite Doctor Who character is River Song and her favourite Star Trek character is Captain Janeway - which tells you everything you need to know about how she approaches her role within a generally male dominated field.