The Worst Companion in Doctor Who: An Analysis

Doctor Who, the legendary British science fiction television series, has featured numerous companions throughout its various seasons. While many of these companions have left indelible marks on the show, a few stand out as embodying the epitome ofantry and mediocrity. In this article, we explore several candidates for the title of the worst companion, drawing from both classic and modern episodes. From the frustratingly hollow praise heaped on Yasmin Khan to the incessant whining of Turlough, let us delve into the characteristics that define a truly terrible Doctor Who companion.

The Worst Companions in Classic Doctor Who

When it comes to the worst companions in classic Doctor Who, tales of Irritating Nad play a significant role. Despite her brief appearance, she earned a special mention not for being completely without merit, but for her one-dimensional portrayal. As Yasmin Khan, her sole function was to be admired for no particular reason or achievement. Her presence felt almost laughable, given the attention she received for what amounted to minimal contributions.

Looking back to the era of Turlough, another contender for the title, we find an ally who might have been better suited as a chronic whiner than a traveling companion. Turlough spent a considerable amount of time complaining and offering little in terms of substance or positive contribution to the narrative. His equally hollow and repetitive complaints detracted from the overall enjoyment of the episodes in which he appeared.

Additional Honorable Mentions

While Yasmin Khan and Turlough stand out as prime examples, there are other companions who deserve honorable mentions for their roles in diluting the experience of Doctor Who fans. Characters like Ian Chesterton, Victoria Waterfield, Tegan Jovanka, Jo Grant, Peri Brown, and Melanie Bush have all been criticized for their one-dimensional or negative traits. These companions often served as convenient plot devices rather than enriching the narrative with their unique qualities.

Controversial Candidates from Classic Doctor Who

In examining the worst companions in classic Doctor Who, we cannot overlook Romana II and Mel Bush. Romana II, despite her numerous regenerations, is often considered one of the worst incarnations of the character. She is believed to have lost a significant portion of her intelligence and wit during her transformations. In comparison to her predecessor, Romana I, she seems to have become blearier and less engaging, almost as if sacrificing her sparkle for time on screen.

Mel Bush faces similar criticism for her boisterous and often frustrating personality. Her portrayal is marked by an irritating level of arrogance and ignorance, frequently testing the patience of both the Doctor and viewers alike. Each irrational outburst and impulsive decision underlines why she might be considered one of the worst companions from the classic era.

The Final Verdict: Adric

One name consistently emerges as the ultimate candidate for the worst companion in classic Doctor Who: Adric. Despite his mathematical prowess, Adric's character development remains underwhelming. He is best remembered for not accidentally damaging the TARDIS console rather than for any significant contributions to the plot. Overly simplistic, Adric's one-dimensional nature and lack of meaningful arc make him a prime example of a poorly written character in Doctor Who history.

The Worst Actor/Actress to Play a Companion

While we can nitpick about characterization and plot contributions, the role of the actor or actress themselves can also reflect poorly on the quality of a companion. In my opinion, Mandip Gill deserves a special mention due to her performance as a companion. Her portrayal often felt forced and unnatural, as if she were playing to a script rather than allowing the character to come alive on screen. This artificial and unconvincing delivery detracted significantly from the impact of her scenes.

Other performances, such as Bill Potts, also receive scrutiny. Bill Potts, played by Pearl Mackie, is a prime example of a companion who combines arrogance and ignorance to a degree that can irritate even long-time fans. While the actress' portrayal is generally praised, her on-screen persona can be grating. Without a well-rounded character to support her, her presence tends to focus on her less-than-pleasant traits rather than contributing positively to the narrative.

A Dream Casting for Doctor Who

While the show has occasionally experimented with unconventional pairings, such as the mix of a young female Doctor with an older male companion, the results have often fallen short of expectations. For instance, the casting of Jodie Whittaker with an older, male companion was intriguing but ultimately did not fully capitalize on the unique dynamic it promised. However, a dream casting scenario for me would involve Michelle Yeoh as the Doctor and Ricky Gervais playing himself as a companion. This combination would bring a fresh and engaging mix of expertise, silliness, and biting cynicism to the show, ensuring that the dynamism between the characters would be second to none.

The interplay between Michelle Yeoh's confident and cerebral Doctor and Ricky Gervais' sharp, sardonic companion would create a perfect blend of wit and adventure. Gervais' famous routines, such as those seen in Animal Quotes, War and Religion, and Money, would add an unexpected layer of humor and insight to the series. Whether discussing the depths of human nature or the perils of space exploration, the duo would bring an energy that challenges and entertains viewers in equal measure.

In conclusion, the worst companion in Doctor Who is often defined by a lack of substance, a repetitive annoying character, or an acting performance that feels unconvincing. Turlough, Mel Bush, and Adric stand out as notable examples, as do the less impactful performances of Mandip Gill and Bill Potts, played by Pearl Mackie. However, a more restrained or bold casting choice, such as the fictional dream team of Michelle Yeoh and Ricky Gervais, would undoubtedly elevate the show and create some truly unforgettable moments.