As Peter Capaldi’s debut as the Doctor approaches, I consider what it is that has myself, and many others, greatly anticipating this new era of Doctor Who.
1. He’s a lifelong fan
It’s no secret that Peter Capaldi is a huge fan of the long running sci-fi television show. This further sparks my excitement for the upcoming series as I know Capaldi has, and will continue to, put his heart and soul into playing the Doctor’s latest incarnation having been a dedicated follower since the age of five. He has talked about the influence of the show and its titular character as his inspiration for taking up acting, “The first four [Doctors] made the most impact on me. They did it with great grace and character, and I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for all of them.” Capaldi has also expressed how overjoyed he was on earning his part as Caecilius in the series 4 episode, “The Fires of Pompeii.” He said, “I remember touching [the TARDIS] … and I got a little bit teary. I was just so thrilled to be there!” Capaldi’s fondness for the show and enthusiasm for the part is a joy to behold and is truly infectious.
2. His Doctor is going to be darker and more mysterious
The 12th incarnation of the Doctor is going to be a darker, more mysterious version as the iconic character shows to be “much more removed and not as accessible to humans” as Jenna Coleman, who plays companion Clara Oswald, stated. Capaldi himself has said that the recent series will “see the Doctor struggle with who he is, and whether the life he leads is an accurate expression of his spirit,” which proves to be an interesting concept for the show to explore and for Capaldi to portray on screen.
3. He’s wonderfully talented
Having seen Capaldi demonstrate his versatility as an actor in numerous roles, such as Malcolm Tucker in The Thick Of It, the devious Cardinal in the BBC adaptation of The Musketeers and the fearless John Frobisher in Torchwood: Children Of Earth, I have no doubt that he will shine in the role of the Doctor. He is well respected by fellow actors and crew members, holding him in the highest regard; Jenna Coleman stating that Capaldi was very “bold and brave [on set]” and writer Mark Gatiss declaring that Capaldi is an “amazing dramatic actor and very funny.”
4. He’s a genuine gentleman
Capaldi appears to be a very genuine, enthusiastic and humble person who has voiced his surprise at portraying the Doctor on more than one occasion, “I’m constantly amazed that it’s me playing this role and often think, ‘I’m Doctor Who, how did that happen?’” He expresses how grateful he is for the opportunity declaring, “It’s a huge privilege and hugely exciting.” Capaldi also cares greatly for the fans, being one himself, increasing my excitement for series 8 knowing he will have put so much effort into bringing the Twelfth Doctor to life. One particular fan encounter is Capaldi’s interaction with a young fan with autism, as reported by the Huffington Post, where he reassures her about the change from Matt Smith’s 11th Doctor to his portrayal as the 12th incarnation whilst searching his phone for a group picture of himself, Jenna Coleman and Matt Smith. The encounter can be seen below:
5. He’s extremely passionate about his role
Capaldi is very passionate about Doctor Who and his portrayal of the Time Lord. He has said that he ensured that there “will be no flirting” with companion Clara though he thinks initially “there was a bit of tension with that.” Co-star Jenna Coleman has also said that during filming, Capaldi would make his own choices concerning certain actions of the Doctor, often overriding the script or direction. This convinced me of Capaldi’s dedication to the role and his commitment to accurately convey the Doctor in a way everyone will be pleased with.