5 actors that would convince me to watch Doctor Who

Here’s the deal: I don’t and never have watched Doctor Who.

Growing up – and despite my Dad being a fan when he was young – I was never encouraged to be a part of the time travelling world of blue telephone boxes and exterminating robot types.

Even when the show returned in 2005, the prospect still couldn’t lure me. Admittedly, I did watch the opening 10 minutes of its Chris Eccleston relaunch, but couldn’t get into it. So I left, never to return, no matter who went on to assume the iconic role of Doctor.

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With Tilda Swinton currently the bookies’ favourite to take over from Peter Capaldi, not only does the idea of a woman Doctor feel like a fresh idea, but Hollywood’s Swinton could bring new life to the programme and even encourage me to get involved.

Yet despite being a big fan of sci-fi myself, I’m still to be enthused about Doctor Who. The recent (far-fetched) rumours about Danny Dyer potentially taking over did, I must confess, grab my attention. Imagine the low-key film star turned EastEnders fave taking on such a role? Without a doubt I’d be gobsmacked but very intrigued.

And it got me thinking – with Tilda or wideboy Danny as possible replacements – which stars would have the pulling power to persuade me to actually tune in and take a proper interest?

TOM HARDY

Sure, he’s not long completed current BBC drama Taboo, and admittedly he’s a massive Hollywood actor, but can you imagine if he took up the role of the Doctor? He’d be the most brutish to date and I’m sure plenty of viewers, both men and women, would tune in. Plus, a brooding, potentially explosive yet simmering portrayal would be a bit crazy, but also rather good, no?

Selling point: Rough and ready Hardy is a fine actor who transforms into a number of diverse personas upon request. Someone as ruggedly handsome and talented would certainly draw me in.

DAME JUDI DENCH

You’re damn right, mainly because Dame Judi’s an undeniable silver and small screen ledge. She may be winding down her career, but at 82 she could easily get a season under her belt – and let’s be frank, one season would be all she needed. Instead of producers looking for a boringly fresh-faced, established name, why not go all out for an experienced icon? I loved her as M in Skyfall, and her presence would massively alter the dynamic of this show.

Selling point: Dame Judi’s experience and wisdom would ooze, giving her an intellectually astute edge. Such a classy individual.

SEAN BEAN

Game of Thrones, alumni Lord Bean (as I like to refer to him) has done it all: whether it’s TV (Sharpe, back in the day) or movies (notably Lord of the Rings and GoldenEye, amongst many, many others), the man’s a straight-talker and with his Thrones stint as headless Ned Stark well and truly in the past. It’s time he moved onto something else with a bit of bite. Plus, who wouldn’t want to hear a Yorkshireman call a Dalek a complete b******d?

Selling point: It’s no holds barred with Bean. Straight-talking, no nonsense would be welcomed. Moments of short-tempered outbursts would fit his style too.

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EMILIA CLARKE

I know, she’s one of the most in-demand actresses in the world and all, and sure I know she’s still an integral part of the Game of Thrones world, but once that’s done and dusted what about sweet-faced Emilia as the new Doctor? She’d bring a charming British sensibility to the role and may be a better route to further acclaim rather making questionable big screen decisions. (Yep, Terminator Genisys, I am talking you.)

Selling point: Petite, sweet, and befuddlingly charming would suit her well, but an occasional mean-streak would add a bit of intrigue, as per her GoT character.

RICHARD AYOADE

Of course Mr. Ayoade would perhaps be the most idea choice of all. Admittedly, many of my above selections are a little ‘out there’ shall we say, but imagine Ayoade – with his distinct styling, spectacles, and inquisitive expression – in a well worn, knee-length tweed coat. Perfect. He’s also got the nuanced, oddball sensibility, timing and demeanour to be a different kind of Doctor, don’t you think?

Selling point: The man would offer exquisite dry wit and intelligence that’d be a hugely appealing combo.

Who would you like to see as the next Doctor Who? Are my choices beyond ridiculous, or can you see where I’m coming from? Leave your choice in the comments below…

Mike is a freelance TV, film, music and entertainment writer, with an unhealthy obsession for Game of Thrones. He’s written for Shortlist, MTV, GamesRadar+, Total Film, GoThinkBig, Loaded, and regularly scribbles for Yahoo Movies, BBC Radio 1, BuzzFeed, VODzilla, and Metro.

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