The Transition from Patrick Troughton to Jon Pertwee as the Doctor in 'Doctor Who'

'Doctor Who', a long-running British science fiction television series, has seen many actors portraying the titular character, known to fans as the Doctor. The transition from Patrick Troughton to Jon Pertwee marked a notable chapter in the series' history. Let's explore this pivotal change and the actors behind it.

The Legacy of Patrick Troughton

Patrick Troughton, an English actor, played the role of the Second Doctor from November 1966 to June 1969, a period of roughly three years. During his tenure, Troughton introduced many iconic elements to the series, including the now-famous catchphrase 'Right-o!'

While he was the Second Doctor, Troughton was succeeded by Jon Pertwee, who became the Third Doctor. This transition was significant, as Pertwee brought a fresh and more serious tone to the role, setting the stage for the Doctor's character development over the years.

Jon Pertwee and the Third Doctor

Jon Pertwee took on the role of the Third Doctor from 1970 to 1975, starring in 39 episodes across three seasons. His portrayal of the Doctor was known for its dramatic qualities, with Pertwee's imposing presence and commanding screen presence making him a fan favorite.

Notably, Pertwee's character was one of the first Doctors to be fully CGI-enhanced in the series. While this wasn't as advanced as modern standards, it represented a significant step forward in the show's visual effects.

The Impact on the Series

The transition from Troughton to Pertwee was a significant evolution for the Doctor's character. While Troughton's portrayal was lighter and more comedic, Pertwee brought a sense of gravitas and genuine heroism to the role. His performance was pivotal in shaping the Doctor's character for the subsequent actors who would take on the role later on.

Both actors have since passed away, but their contributions to the series remain deeply cherished by fans. Troughton was known for his ability to command the screen with understated confidence, while Pertwee brought a more dramatic and serious interpretation to the role.

Contemporary Perspectives

Delegate any modern viewers who have never seen the original series a chance to experience the early days of 'Doctor Who'. The Second Doctor, particularly in Troughton's portrayal, can be quite unsettling and the Third Doctor, played by Pertwee, is certainly intimidating. However, both actors brought unique and memorable qualities to their roles.

Troughton's son, Michael Troughton, has continued his father's legacy in audio productions produced by Big Finish. Interestingly, Michael has taken over voicing his father's character in a series of full-cast audio dramas, highlighting the ongoing impact of the early Doctors.

For those who grew up watching 'Doctor Who' reruns on PBS, the transitions from Troughton to Pertwee to Tom Baker are a natural progression that shaped the character's development. Each Doctor brought something new to the role, setting the stage for the myriad of actors who followed.

Conclusion

The transition from Patrick Troughton to Jon Pertwee as the Doctor in 'Doctor Who' was a critical moment in the show's history. Both actors left indelible marks on the series, shaping the character and setting the stage for future iterations. Understanding this transition can provide a deeper appreciation for the evolution of the Doctor, making it worth a revisit for long-time fans and newcomers alike.