The Worst Companions of Doctor Who: A Critical Analysis

Doctor Who, a beloved series that spans decades, features an impressive array of companions. However, some companions stand out as particularly unsuited for the Doctor's company. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind why certain companions might not have fit the dynamic well, with a focus on Peri Brown and Mel Bush.

Peri Brown: The Harsh American Companion

One of the most controversial companions in Doctor Who is Peri Brown. Played by Nicola Bryant, Peri first appeared in the 6th Doctor's era and quickly became a unfavorable figure among fans. Acting as the only American character, Peri was often portrayed with a harsh nasal accent and an "I can do anything" attitude, which frequently clashed with the Doctor's more carefree and unconventional approach.

Is Is rope to blame? Some argue that Peri's unsuitability for the role stems from the acting and writing rather than the character itself. While actor Nicola Bryant did a commendable job given the constraints, the role was ultimately plagued by poor writing and character development. The Doctor in Peri's era was not known for his joy and enthusiasm, making the companionship feel even more jarring.

Peri Brown: A Representative of the Time

Peri's portrayal as a hyper-competent and abrasive American woman reflects the cultural stereotypes of the 1980s, a time when the original show was struggling with its narrative structures and character arcs. Peri comes across as overly confident and naive, often clashing with the Doctor's more insightful and philosophical nature.

Her incompatibility with the Doctor can also be attributed to the time period and cultural context. Peri's unyielding "can do" attitude and lack of understanding of the universe's complexities presented quite a challenge in companionship. She seemed more like a sideline character rather than a fully integrated member of the Doctor's party.

Mel Bush: The Distraction and Writing Flaws

Another controversial companion is Mel Bush, portrayed by Bonnie Langford. Unlike Peri, Mel was originally brought back as an antagonist in the 12th Doctor's era, but she was later recontextualized as a companion. However, many fans questioned her fit with the Doctor.

Despite Bonnie Langford's convincing performance, the writing for Mel's arc was often criticized for being lacking in depth and consistency. The Doctor and Mel's relationship was frequently defined by conflicting personal goals and tensions, which made her less of a dynamic companion and more of a nuisance.

One key argument against Mel is that she was introduced and written during the show's waning years. The narrative focus in this era was often inconsistent and poorly developed. Mel's departure from the show was hastily done, leaving many viewers with an incomplete understanding of her character arc.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while some of the worst companions of Doctor Who may be subjective, Peri Brown and Mel Bush stand out as particularly incompatible with the Doctor's role and dynamic. The writing and contextual issues of the time period further contributed to these companions' unsuitability, making the time spent with them a less enjoyable experience for many viewers.