When Did the Daleks Last Appear in Doctor Who?

Long-time fans of the Doctor Who franchise will remember that the iconic creatures known as the Daleks have dominated numerous episodes and stories. However, their appearances have been sporadic in recent seasons, giving the beloved classic villains a much-needed break. In this article, we explore the times when the Daleks made their last appearances in the show's various seasons and series. We also examine the context and significance of these appearances.

Contemporary Seasons

As of the 12th season, the Daleks' last appearance was in the New Year's special episode Resolution, which marked the transition to the new season. This episode introduced a single scout Dalek with enhanced abilities, setting a new precedent for their occasional appearances in the series.

The Daleks are on a break from regular appearances, largely because of overuse during the original Russell T. Davies (RTD) era and in the Chris Chibnall era. The last confirmed appearances were in 2019 and 2022, but fans are eagerly anticipating their return in 2025 or later. Here's a breakdown of their last appearances in recent seasons:

Resolution (Twelfth Doctor) (2019) - A single scout Dalek was featured in this New Year's special. The Power of the Doctor (Thirteenth Doctor) (2022) - The Daleks made a brief appearance in this centenary special.

These appearances demonstrate the selective and strategic nature of the Dalek's presence in the series, ensuring they remain compelling and impactful when they do appear.

Pre-2022 Appearances

For context, here is a list of seasons and series in which the Daleks did not appear as the main antagonists:

Seasons 5-8, 13-16, 18-19, 23-24, 26

These seasons are notable for their lack of Dalek appearances, aside from a brief glimpse in The Wargames (Season 6) and Death to the Daleks (Season 19). The Daleks, as a rule, did not feature as the primary antagonists in these episodes.

Previous Doctor-Era Appearances

The Daleks' last appearances with previous Doctors include:

Thirteenth Doctor

Resolution (2019) - The last appearance with the Thirteenth Doctor featured a single scout Dalek. The Remnant of the Daleks (2022) - The Daleks appeared in this centenary special, briefly showcasing their presence in the series.

Twelfth Doctor

Twice Upon a Time (2017) - This Christmas special featured Rusty, a rogue Dalek, and several destroyed Daleks. The Doctor has to face the consequences of regeneration.

Eleventh Doctor

The Time of the Doctor (2013) - The Daleks were one of many alien races in this episode, but they were not the primary focus.

Tenth Doctor

The Day of the Doctor (2013) - Although technically, it took place before the events of The End of Time, the last appearance during the Tenth Doctor's run was in The Stolen Earth (2008) and Journey's End. These episodes featured the destruction of the Time Lord races, leading to the Doctor's regeneration.

Ninth Doctor

Bad Wolf (2005) - The Daleks appeared in thetwo-parter Bad Wolf / The Parting of the Ways, leading to the Doctor's regeneration as well.

Eighth Doctor

Lucie Miller (2011) - This audio adventure might be the last appearance, with further adventures planned in 2019.

Seventh Doctor

Remembrance of the Daleks (1988) - The Daleks were destroyed but the story begs for a sequel as they would likely resurface immediately.

Sixth Doctor

Revelation of the Daleks (1985) - The Daleks were destroyed, but like many Dalek stories, this one left room for future appearances.

Fifth Doctor

Resurrection of the Daleks (1984) - The Daleks were destroyed, though they would return in another story.

Fourth Doctor

Destiny of the Daleks (1979) - The Daleks were not immediately destroyed, and as usual, they would likely reappear shortly after.

Third Doctor

Death to the Daleks (1974) - While the Daleks were not destroyed, we see the death of one of the Doctor's companions.

Second Doctor

Evil of the Daleks (1967) - The Daleks were destroyed, but the serial was lost, with only episode 2 surviving.

First Doctor

The Daleks' Master Plan (1965) - The Daleks were not destroyed, but the serial was lost, with only three episodes surviving.

These appearances showcase the Daleks' significant impact on the franchise, with each encounter leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of fans. The selective nature of their appearances in contemporary seasons hence ensures their continued relevance and excitement in the show.