Things We Saw Today: Jo Martin Makes History on Doctor Who

It’s official: Jo Martin (Back to Life, Holby City) has just made history as the first ever Black female doctor in the latest episode of Doctor Who. In “Fugitive of the Judoon”, written by Vinay Patel and showrunner Chris Chibnall, Martin plays Ruth Clayton, who is dramatically revealed to be a forgotten Doctor of the past.

The 13th Doctor discovers Ruth’s true identity when they find a TARDIS buried under Ruth’s family home. Ruth introduces herself to a bewildered Doc, who cannot reconcile this version of herself with, well, herself.

Martin tells the 13th Doctor “You’re in my future, not the other way around,” but Jodie Whittaker doesn’t remember her previous incarnation, stating “I’ve never been anything like you … Trust me, I’d remember – especially that shirt.” But when did Martin’s Doctor come from? And why can’t she and Whittaker remember each other? Does this mean that Whittaker is technically the second female Doctor Who?

Martin’s Doctor, however, won’t be taking the mantle from Jodie Whittaker (as far as we know). Much like John Hurt’s War Doctor, who appeared in 2013’s 50th Anniversary Special “The Day of the Doctor” who was a repressed regeneration between Paul McGann and Christopher Eccleston.

We’ll have to wait and see when Martin’s Doctor Who is from and what her story is, but damn, what a turn! Only something so momentous as the first Black female Doctor could steal the thunder from the raucous return of Captain Jack Harkness. Whovians, take a deep breath!

(via Radio Times, image: BBC)

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Chelsea Steiner

Chelsea was born and raised in New Orleans, which explains her affinity for cheesy grits and Britney Spears. An pop culture journalist since 2012, her work has appeared on Autostraddle, AfterEllen, and more. Her beats include queer popular culture, film, television, republican clownery, and the unwavering belief that 'The Long Kiss Goodnight' is the greatest movie ever made. She currently resides in sunny Los Angeles, with her husband, 2 sons, and one poorly behaved rescue dog. She is a former roller derby girl and a black belt in Judo, so she is not to be trifled with. She loves the word “Jewess” and wishes more people used it to describe her.

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