Matt Smith officially becomes the Doctor in the final moments of “The End of Time, Part Two,” the second part of David Tennant’s regeneration story. While his full appearance and first words occur later, the transformation process itself begins within this pivotal episode.
From Tragedy to Transformation: A Deep Dive into Regeneration
The transition from one Doctor to another is always a momentous occasion in Doctor Who history. David Tennant’s emotionally charged departure in “The End of Time” is arguably one of the most memorable, making Matt Smith’s arrival all the more impactful. Understanding the context surrounding this event helps to fully appreciate the significance of Smith’s debut.
Tennant’s Final Moments
The episode chronicles the Doctor’s efforts to stop the Master (John Simm) and his plan to turn the entire human race into copies of himself. This culminates in a confrontation that leaves the Doctor absorbing a fatal dose of radiation to save his companion, Wilfred Mott (Bernard Cribbins). The impending regeneration is handled with remarkable gravitas, showcasing the emotional toll it takes on the Doctor, who desperately doesn’t want to change. His poignant “I don’t want to go!” has become iconic, encapsulating the fear and uncertainty inherent in regeneration.
The Initial Transformation
After absorbing the radiation, the Doctor stumbles back to the TARDIS, knowing his time is limited. The regeneration process begins, with energy emanating from his hands and body. We see glimpses of the new Doctor’s form shifting beneath the energy, creating anticipation for the reveal. Importantly, this initial regeneration happens within “The End of Time, Part Two.”
The First Words and True Debut
While the regeneration begins in “The End of Time, Part Two,” Matt Smith’s true debut, complete with his first words and personality, occurs in the following episode, “The Eleventh Hour.” This episode serves as the formal introduction of the Eleventh Doctor, showcasing his new look, mannerisms, and his immediate connection with Amy Pond (Karen Gillan). It is here that viewers truly experience the complete transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matt Smith’s Doctor
These FAQs address common questions and provide further insights into Matt Smith’s arrival and early tenure as the Doctor.
FAQ 1: Was Matt Smith the youngest Doctor ever?
No, Matt Smith wasn’t the youngest actor to portray the Doctor upon his initial casting. Peter Davison, who played the Fifth Doctor, was younger when he was cast. However, Matt Smith was the youngest actor to portray the Doctor on screen. Peter Davison appeared in his first full episode when he was only a couple of months older than Matt Smith was when he appeared in “The Eleventh Hour”.
FAQ 2: What was the audience reaction to Matt Smith’s casting?
Initial reactions were mixed. Many fans were skeptical due to Smith’s young age and relatively unknown status. However, once “The Eleventh Hour” aired, Smith quickly won over audiences with his energetic performance, quirky mannerisms, and compelling portrayal of the centuries-old Time Lord.
FAQ 3: What makes Matt Smith’s Doctor unique?
Smith’s Doctor is characterized by his childlike wonder, boundless energy, and slightly manic intensity. He blends a whimsical sense of humor with moments of profound sadness and wisdom. His signature bow tie and tweed jacket, coupled with his somewhat awkward physical presence, created a distinctive and memorable Doctor. He frequently used the phrase, “Geronimo!” as his signature battle cry.
FAQ 4: Who was Matt Smith’s first companion?
Amy Pond, played by Karen Gillan, was Matt Smith’s first companion. She first appeared in “The Eleventh Hour” as a young girl who had encountered the Doctor years earlier.
FAQ 5: What was the significance of the Eleventh Doctor’s sonic screwdriver?
The Eleventh Doctor’s sonic screwdriver was a new design compared to previous incarnations. It served as a multifunctional tool, capable of unlocking doors, scanning objects, and performing various technological feats. More importantly, it was a symbol of the Doctor’s ingenuity and resourcefulness.
FAQ 6: What are some of the Eleventh Doctor’s most memorable episodes?
Notable episodes featuring Matt Smith include “The Eleventh Hour,” “Vincent and the Doctor,” “The Lodger,” “The Impossible Astronaut/Day of the Moon,” “The Doctor’s Wife,” “The Angels Take Manhattan,” “The Name of the Doctor,” and “The Day of the Doctor.” These episodes showcase Smith’s range as an actor and the captivating storylines of his era.
FAQ 7: How long did Matt Smith play the Doctor?
Matt Smith portrayed the Doctor for three series and several specials, from 2010 to 2013.
FAQ 8: What was Matt Smith’s regeneration episode?
Matt Smith’s regeneration episode was “The Time of the Doctor,” which aired on Christmas Day 2013. This episode resolved numerous plot threads and provided a fitting send-off for his incarnation.
FAQ 9: How did the Eleventh Doctor regenerate?
The Eleventh Doctor regenerated due to the cumulative effects of age and battle. He was granted a new cycle of regenerations by the Time Lords after saving Trenzalore from numerous threats.
FAQ 10: What were the Eleventh Doctor’s last words?
Before regenerating, the Eleventh Doctor famously says, “I will always remember when the Doctor was me.” This line encapsulates the Doctor’s enduring spirit and the unique experiences that define each incarnation.
FAQ 11: How does Matt Smith’s Doctor compare to other Doctors?
Each Doctor brings a unique interpretation to the role. Smith’s Doctor is often compared to Patrick Troughton’s Second Doctor in his use of humor and apparent eccentricity. However, Smith’s Doctor also possessed a unique vulnerability and depth, making him a distinct and memorable character in his own right. His take on the role injected a youthful energy and almost manic sense of curiosity.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch Matt Smith’s episodes of Doctor Who?
Matt Smith’s episodes of Doctor Who are generally available for streaming on platforms like Max (formerly HBO Max), BBC iPlayer (in the UK), and for purchase on services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Check local listings for availability in your region. DVD and Blu-ray sets are also readily available for purchase.