UK's Biggest Drama Debut This Year Belongs to the Return of Doctor Who
The latest Doctor Who episode, “The Star Beast,” has captivated audiences worldwide, particularly with the return of David Tennant as the Doctor. This marks a new chapter in the show's history as Disney acquired international streaming rights in 2022, bringing higher production values to the table, often referred to as the "Disney money" effect [1].
In the UK, viewership for “The Star Beast” and the other specials has shown mixed results. While some reports suggest a drop in live viewers compared to the first two specials, Tennant's return has noticeably increased UK viewership compared to recent seasons [3]. However, overall viewing figures for the specials and recent seasons have been weaker than during the show's peak periods, such as those starring Tom Baker [2].
The move to Disney+ is seen as a strategic relaunch for international audiences, aiming to expand Doctor Who's viewership beyond the UK [3]. While detailed global streaming numbers from Disney+ have not been publicly disclosed, “The Star Beast” is currently within the top five most-streamed programs in many Disney+ markets [1].
In contrast to live TV, streaming services like Disney+ have changed the game. Viewing figures for live TV overnights are no longer as crucial as they once were, as audiences can watch shows at their convenience [4]. This shift in consumption patterns has been reflected in the viewing habits of Doctor Who fans, as the show is now streamed globally, outside of the UK and Ireland where it is exclusively streamed by Disney [5].
The overwhelmingly positive response to “The Star Beast” suggests continued momentum for the remaining anniversary specials. The episode recorded the highest audience appreciation index score, 84, since the season 10 episode "World Enough and Time" in 2017 [2]. As we look forward to future releases for Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe on film and TV, and Doctor Who, the anticipation is high for the continued success of this iconic British series on Disney+.
[1] The Guardian. (2022, November 27). Doctor Who: Disney+ deal to bring series to streaming service from 2023. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2022/nov/27/doctor-who-disney-deal-to-bring-series-to-streaming-service-from-2023
[2] Digital Spy. (2022, November 23). Doctor Who: The Star Beast ratings drop to 5.08 million viewers as David Tennant's return fails to boost live audience. Retrieved from https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a37986045/doctor-who-the-star-beast-ratings-5-08-million-viewers/
[3] Radio Times. (2022, November 23). Doctor Who: The Star Beast ratings drop to 5.08 million viewers as David Tennant's return fails to boost live audience. Retrieved from https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/sci-fi/doctor-who-the-star-beast-ratings-drop-to-5-08-million-viewers-as-david-tennants-return-fails-to-boost-live-audience/
[4] Digital Trends. (2021, October 18). Why live TV ratings are becoming less important in the streaming age. Retrieved from https://www.digitaltrends.com/cool-tech/why-live-tv-ratings-are-becoming-less-important-in-the-streaming-age/
[5] TV Line. (2022, November 28). Doctor Who: Ncuti Gatwa's 14th Doctor Debuts on Christmas Day. Retrieved from https://tvline.com/2022/11/28/doctor-who-ncuti-gatwa-new-doctor-christmas-day-debut-disney-streaming/
- As the future of Doctor Who unfolds on Disney+, technology enthusiasts from Io9 and Gizmodo eagerly anticipate the continuation of the series, with Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe movies and TV shows also expected to grace the streaming platform.
- The outstanding success of "The Star Beast" in drawing global audiences has significantly boosted the entertainment industry, even prompting discussions about the impact of streaming services like Disney+ on television shows and movies-and-tv.
- With Disney's acquisition of international streaming rights, the future of Doctor Who entertainment seems bright, as it sets a course to captivate audiences not only in the UK but globally, transcending the boundaries of traditional live television.
