The iconic British TV series Doctor Who has garnered widespread acclaim for its latest special episode, “The Star Beast,” thanks to its strong emphasis on LGBTQ+ representation.
Marking the show’s 60th anniversary, “The Star Beast,” the first of three hour-long specials, featured the return of Russell T Davies as showrunner, David Tennant reprising his role as the Doctor, and Catherine Tate as Donna Noble, his former companion. The episode’s plot centred on the Doctor’s struggle as a spaceship crash-lands in London, intertwining fate with Donna and her family.
Notably, the episode introduced Yasmin Finney, known for her role in “Heartstopper,” as Rose Temple-Noble, Donna’s daughter. Additionally, lesbian icon Miriam Margolyes played the classic Doctor Who villain, Beep the Meep, bringing a conversation about pronouns into the storyline.
Fans took to social media to express their enthusiasm for the show’s inclusive approach. Many celebrated the progressive portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and themes, highlighting how it counters the current climate of transphobia and negativity.
One viewer praised Davies for embracing trans representation, saying, “Russell T Davies truly stood up and said Trans people are beautiful and we love to see it.” Another fan appreciated the respectful depiction of Donna’s relationship with her trans daughter, calling it a much-needed representation in today’s world.
Trans rights advocate India Willoughby reflected on the episode’s impact, noting the generational divide in attitudes towards trans people and expressing a wish for earlier acceptance.
Some fans acknowledged Davies’s intentional push for progressive elements, knowing it would provoke reactions from certain internet critics. One viewer even pointed out the irony of audiences reacting to Tennant discussing pronouns in “Doctor Who,” considering his recent non-binary role in “Good Omens 2.”
Overall, “Doctor Who” has been lauded for its bold and inclusive storytelling, particularly in its portrayal of transgender characters and themes, resonating powerfully with viewers and signalling a step forward in mainstream media representation.
