The inaugural episode of the legendary science fiction series Doctor Who, titled “An Unearthly Child,” aired on Saturday, November 23, 1963, at 5:15 PM GMT on BBC One. This seemingly ordinary broadcast marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey through time and space that would captivate generations.
The Genesis of a Legend: Behind the First Broadcast
The initial broadcast of Doctor Who faced its own share of temporal troubles. An assassination of President Kennedy the day before and ongoing technical glitches within the BBC meant that the first episode was almost entirely overshadowed. In fact, due to technical difficulties, the first seven minutes of the episode were re-recorded and broadcast again directly after the initial airing. This is why some viewers may have slightly differing memories of the very beginning. However, despite this rocky start, Doctor Who’s compelling narrative, innovative special effects (for the time), and unique premise quickly gained a dedicated following, cementing its place in television history.
The Story Begins: “An Unearthly Child” Deconstructed
The first episode introduces us to William Hartnell as the First Doctor, a mysterious and somewhat cantankerous old man who is revealed to be an alien from the planet Gallifrey. He is accompanied by his granddaughter, Susan Foreman, who possesses a remarkable knowledge of science and history. Their secret is uncovered by two school teachers, Barbara Wright and Ian Chesterton, who are intrigued by Susan’s extraordinary abilities and the strange blue police box she and her grandfather seem to be associated with. Their investigation leads them aboard the TARDIS (Time and Relative Dimension in Space), a time machine disguised as a police box, and thus begins their incredible journey through time and space. The episode ends with the TARDIS inexplicably travelling to a primitive and dangerous prehistoric environment, foreshadowing the adventures to come. The stark contrast between the contemporary school setting and the ancient world created a captivating hook for viewers.
Decoding the Legacy: Why Doctor Who Endures
The enduring appeal of Doctor Who lies in its ability to constantly reinvent itself while retaining its core values. The concept of regeneration allows the Doctor to be played by different actors, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the role. This, combined with the show’s willingness to explore complex themes, such as morality, humanity, and the consequences of technology, ensures that it remains relevant and engaging for audiences of all ages. The show’s low-budget charm in its early years also contributed to its unique aesthetic, forcing creative solutions and fostering a sense of imagination that transcended technological limitations.
FAQs: Exploring the Depths of Doctor Who’s Origins
Here are some commonly asked questions about the origins of Doctor Who, designed to further illuminate the show’s early years:
When did the BBC first conceive the idea for Doctor Who?
The idea for Doctor Who originated in 1963 within the BBC’s drama department, specifically under the guidance of Head of Drama Sydney Newman. He envisioned a show that would be both educational and entertaining, targeting a family audience and filling a gap in the Saturday evening programming schedule.
Who were the key figures involved in creating Doctor Who?
Sydney Newman, Verity Lambert (the show’s first producer), and script editor David Whitaker were pivotal in shaping the initial concept and direction of Doctor Who. Writers C.E. Webber and Anthony Coburn were also instrumental in crafting the scripts for the first serials.
Why was William Hartnell chosen to play the First Doctor?
William Hartnell, a seasoned character actor, was chosen for his ability to portray a figure of authority and mystery. While his initial portrayal was somewhat gruff, he gradually developed a more paternal and endearing side, endearing him to viewers. Newman felt that Hartnell embodied the gravitas and alien quality they sought for the Time Lord.
What was the original budget for the first season of Doctor Who?
The budget for the first season of Doctor Who was relatively low, even by 1960s television standards. This constraint forced the production team to be incredibly resourceful, using innovative techniques and readily available materials to create the show’s distinctive visual style. It’s estimated each episode cost between £2,000-£3,000, a small amount compared to today’s television budgets.
How many viewers tuned in for the initial broadcast of “An Unearthly Child?”
While the exact figures vary, estimates suggest that approximately 4.4 million viewers watched the initial broadcast of “An Unearthly Child.” While not a massive number, it was sufficient to warrant a second episode and the continuation of the series.
What were the main influences on the early stories of Doctor Who?
The early stories of Doctor Who drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including science fiction literature, historical events, and contemporary social issues. The show aimed to educate viewers about history and science, while also exploring moral dilemmas and the potential consequences of technological advancement.
What challenges did the production team face in creating the first episode?
The production team faced numerous challenges, including limited resources, technical difficulties, and a tight production schedule. They also had to contend with the skepticism of some within the BBC who doubted the show’s potential for success. The re-recording of the first seven minutes further added to the pressure.
What was the initial critical reception of Doctor Who?
The initial critical reception of Doctor Who was mixed. Some critics praised the show’s originality and ambition, while others criticized its low-budget production values and occasionally uneven scripts. However, the show quickly gained a loyal following among viewers.
How did the TARDIS come to be disguised as a police box?
According to the series mythology, the TARDIS is supposed to blend into its surroundings. However, its chameleon circuit malfunctioned during its initial visit to Earth, leaving it permanently stuck in the shape of a 1960s-era London police box. This quirk has become one of the show’s most iconic and enduring elements.
What happened to the original film recordings of many early Doctor Who episodes?
Sadly, many early episodes of Doctor Who were erased or destroyed by the BBC as part of a cost-saving measure. This practice, common in the 1960s and 1970s, resulted in the loss of numerous classic episodes. Thankfully, some episodes have been recovered from overseas broadcasts or through private collectors.
How does the first episode compare to the Doctor Who of today?
The first episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the origins of a television legend. While the production values and special effects are vastly different from the modern era, the core themes of adventure, curiosity, and the exploration of time and space remain central to the show’s identity.
Where can I watch “An Unearthly Child” today?
“An Unearthly Child,” along with many other Doctor Who episodes, is available on various streaming services (depending on region), as well as on DVD and Blu-ray. The BBC also periodically airs classic episodes on its television channels and streaming platforms. It’s a crucial piece of television history well worth experiencing.