Doctor Who Set Photos — Tennant and Tate Return
Jed | Hollywood Scholar | May 18, 2022 |
The return of David Tennant, the 60th Anniversary, some short specials, and a potential Christmas Special for Doctor Who are fast approaching. The filming for these Doctor Who episodes is now in full swing, with several set photos revealing a little of what Russell T. Davies’s plan for the series going forward may be. Many fans are cautiously optimistic at the very best upon hearing news of these returns — many fans fearing that they may be simple key jangling or, worse, signal the destruction of these previously beloved characters — but few fans can resist the joy and happiness derived from seeing some of revered actors taking up their iconic roles once again.
The first set of images posted on Twitter features David Tennant in a new Doctor outfit, Catherine Tate returning as Donna Noble, Yasmin Finney as Rose, and Jacqueline King returning as Sylvia Noble.
EVERYONE IS HERE! #dwsr pic.twitter.com/cAjtHmxfAV
— David Makalena (@DavidMakalena) May 17, 2022
A video recorded by a fan outside of the set also features Yasmin Finney waving at fans with an infectious smile, apparently overjoyed to be a part of this production. Finney’s casting has sparked controversy among fans, as her character has been revealed to be named Rose. Some evidence suggests that she is merely the daughter of Donna Noble. However, more evidence points to her being an alternate multiverse version of Rose Tyler, previously played by Billie Piper. If the latter is true, outrage will sweep through the fandom, as Rose is a beloved character who should not be played by anyone other than Billie Piper. An additional image from the set sees Jacqueline King’s Silvia Noble holding hands with Finney, which many onlookers took as proof that they were related. However, these are behind-the-scenes images that may simply reflect the actresses’ relationships with each other and should not be taken as proof one way or another.
A big wave from Yasmin Finney! pic.twitter.com/V7iNlhtVX9
— Max Kashevsky (@MaxKashevsky) May 17, 2022
Another series of videos from onlookers gives fans a closer look at both the 10th Doctor and Donna interacting with Jodie Whittaker’s TARDIS. The inclusion of Whittaker’s TARDIS may be cause for concern, as what the series needs most is a complete and utter divorce from the Whitaker/Chibnall era, and David Tennant using her TARDIS is far from that needed divorce.
I don't know what Catherine was saying to him but David couldn't stop laughing lmao
I'd pay anything to know tbh #dwsr pic.twitter.com/PRxscagslq— Flav⎊ (@Darveyinbed) May 18, 2022
I’m choosing to believe this camera in front of David is Doctor Who Confidential & this is him messing about saying hello #DoctorWho #dwsr pic.twitter.com/T2Owrhf8Yg
— vickster51 (@vickster51) May 17, 2022
Some images also show a closer look at David Tennant’s new outfit and a new Sonic Screwdriver that is completely unique in design. The change in both his outfit and Sonic further suggests that this is an alternate universe version of the 10th Doctor and his companions. If this return were merely filling in the gaps of Tennant’s original seasons 2 through 4 adventures, he would be featured in his original clothing and with his original Sonic.
bumped into this guy in Camden #DoctorWho #dwsr pic.twitter.com/kuwMFJNria
— hats :•) (@Hattiethepirate) May 17, 2022
New Sonic via @davyboy94673521 #dwsr pic.twitter.com/YofsBTFRwZ
— Jude (@_PigginTeaBreak) May 18, 2022
Lastly, another video depicts a series of extras in heavy, winter-like clothing, which has led many to speculate that these extras may be filming a Christmas Special to accompany the 60th Anniversary. This possibility will excite fans who have long missed the inclusion of yearly Christmas Specials that were once a staple of this beloved series.
The jury is still out on whether or not the 60th Anniversary, any other potential tie-in specials, or Davies’s new era as a whole will feature a return to form and a resurrection of this franchise. Cautious optimism should be the best that fans muster until the episodes air. The damage done by Chris Chibnall and Jodie Whittaker runs deep and spreads throughout every crevice of this 60-year franchise, and it will take much work and dedication to eradicate it.
At this point, there is very little proof that Davies is dedicated to doing the work necessary to redeem Doctor Who. Despite this uncertainty and the dire status of the show, a degree of excitement is warranted from fans at seeing these beloved characters return to the small screen. Hopefully, it is everything that fans hope their return will be.
