If Doctor Who Originated in the US: What Would the Doctor’s TARDIS Look Like?

Imagine a Doctor Who series originating in the United States. The iconic TARDIS would likely be transformed to fit the cultural and technological landscape of the country and era. This article explores how the chameleon circuit of the TARDIS might work in a US setting, offering various possibilities depending on the time and location.

Decade and Location

The origin of Doctor Who naturally depends on the decade and the geographical area. Whether it's rural, urban, or suburban, the TARDIS would adapt to its surroundings through the chameleon circuit. If Doctor Who were to start in 2005, a modern setting, the TARDIS could blend into coffee kiosks or snow cone stands. These structures are ubiquitous and blend seamlessly with urban, rural, and suburban environments.

The 1960s: A Different Context

During the 1960s, a TARDIS adapting to a US setting would be quite different from the familiar police call box of British origins. Consider the numerous telephone booths in the UK, which are not as common in the US. Instead, Fotomat kiosks, which resemble small convenience stores, could serve as a convincing disguise. Another possibility would be a VW Microbus, given its independent and mobile nature. This would allow the TARDIS to be flexible in its location changes, making it an even more versatile time machine.

Episode Insights and the Chameleon Circuit

Recall the episode 'Hell Bent,' where Clara ends up with a TARDIS that resembles a diner, suggesting a wide range of possibilities for the TARDIS. This flexibility is due to the faulty chameleon circuit, designed to make the TARDIS blend into its surroundings. In a US setting, a transparent telephone booth could potentially ruin the illusion, as it would be difficult to disguise the TARDIS as something unremarkable.

Conclusion: A Flexible Time Machine

The chameleon circuit of the TARDIS is designed to adapt to different environments and situations. If Doctor Who were to originate in the US, the TARDIS would likely be more like familiar US structures such as coffee kiosks, snow cone stands, Fotomat kiosks, or even a VW Microbus. The TARDIS could take on a variety of forms, from a functional and unremarkable structure to a recognizable icon of time travel.