Myth Busting: The 11th Doctor and His Companion Rose

Seemingly, there's a common misconception among many fans of the popular British science fiction series, Doctor Who. The query always comes up, 'What does the 11th Doctor call his companion Rose?' However, this premise is completely inaccurate. The 11th Doctor, played by Matt Smith, never had a companion named Rose. The character of Rose Tyler is actually associated with the 9th and 10th Doctors. Let’s delve into the history of the character and explore the 11th Doctor's companionship.

The 9th and 10th Doctors: A Closer Look

The character of Rose Tyler first appeared in the 9th Doctor’s era, specifically in the 2005 revival of the series, where she appeared in the two-part story "The Parting of the Ways." Rose Tyler was a significant part of the 9th (Christopher Eccleston) and 10th (David Tennant) Doctors' adventure, playing a pivotal role in the events of these stories. This was also the period when Rose was the main companion of the Doctors.

Comprehending a Doctor’s Companions

It's crucial to understand that each incarnation of the Doctor in Doctor Who tends to have at least one, if not more, companions who they travel with throughout their adventures. These companions often play a significant part in the plot, offering both emotional and functional support to the Doctor. Companions often evolve and grow with the Doctor, experiencing significant personal development and change. Therefore, when Rose speaks to the 11th Doctor or when fans mistakenly believe she was his companion, it's a reflection of the character's prominence during the earlier seasons.

Introducing the 11th Doctor’s Companions

The 11th Doctor, played by Matt Smith, introduced his own set of companions. The primary companions in this era were Amy Pond and Clara Oswald. Amy Pond was introduced in the second series and served as the Doctor's main companion for two series. Clara Oswald, introduced by Smith towards the end of Series 5, formed a significant bond with the 11th Doctor and played a crucial role in the Doctor’s later adventures.

Conclusion: Clearing the Air

It's fascinating to explore the rich and complex relationships between the Doctors and their companions. The idea of Rose Tyler as the 11th Doctor's companion, while a popular misconception, adds a layer of intrigue and nostalgia to the series. The dynamic between the Doctor and their companions is what makes Doctor Who a beloved and long-lasting series. Understanding the characters of each Doctor helps fans and new viewers appreciate the show on a deeper level and enjoy the rich tapestry of adventures and storylines.

References and Further Reading

For those interested in learning more about the character development of companions in Doctor Who and the adventures of the 11th Doctor, I recommend the following resources: Doctor Who: The New Series Companion by David Abbiss (to deepen your understanding of the 9th and 10th Doctors' companionships) Doctor Who: A Comprehensive Guide to the Universe by Christopher G. Huss (for a broader perspective on the series and its characters) The Official Doctor Who Site for the latest news, reviews, and curiosities about the series. Wikipedia entries on Doctor Who series for a quick overview.