TARDIS Scanner

AUDIO: Series 10 Soundtrack [12th December 2025]

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:22:00 +0000

The long-awaited score to Peter Capaldi’s final series as the Doctor is coming soon to CD and digital release from Silva Screen Records, with original music by Murray Gold.

Fans of Doctor Who’s iconic score will soon be able to fill a gap in their collection when the Series 10 soundtrack releases on 12th December. With music by legendary Doctor Who composer Murray Gold, this original television soundtrack features music from Peter Capaldi’s final series as the Twelfth Doctor, as well as its bookending Christmas specials The Return of Doctor Mysterio and Twice Upon a Time.

The soundtrack will be released on both CD and digital release, with artwork depicting Capaldi as the Doctor with his Series 10 companions Bill Potts (Pearl Mackie) and Nardole (Matt Lucas).

To celebrate Doctor Who Day, an alternative ‘Series 10’-branded cover is exclusively available below for download.

Disc 1
The Return of Doctor Mysterio

1. A Doctor for Christmas
2. You're a Superhero
3. Harmony Shoal
4. The Flight of The Ghost
5. Next Stop, New York
6. Brace for Impact
7. Saving the Day

Series 10

8. The Professor
9. Trapped in the TARDIS
10. Escape from Earth
11. The Deadliest Fire in the Universe
12. Keep Your Memories
13. The Vardies
14. No Humans
15. The Calorimeter
16. Frost Fair
17. Moving On
18. Feeding Time
19. Bill
20. Out of the Woodwork
21. The Tower
22. Zombies in Space
23. Fighting the Suits
24. The Executioner
25. Divine Intervention
26. Finding the Veritas
27. Oath of a Time Lord
28. Calling the Doctor
29. Times of Crisis
30. Arrival at the Pyramid
31. Judgement of the Monks
32. The World That Never Was
33. Memory Crimes
34. Holding on to Hope
35. Rescue Mission
36. Whatever it Takes
37. The Band Back Together
38. It Has to Be Bill
39. Glimpse of Freedom
40. Missy's Remorse

Disc 2
Series 10

1. The Countdown
2. The Story in the Stone
3. Lost Legion of the Ninth
4. The Colony Ship
5. This Was a Bad Idea
6. Oldest Friend in the Universe
7. A Matter of Time
8. Operation
9. Genesis of the Cybermen
10. Scarecrow Cybermen
11. Parallel Evolution
12. The Solar Farm
13. Time Enough
14. The Doctor Lies Still
15. I Will Not Change

Twice Upon a Time
16. The Original, You Might Say
17. Chamber of the Dead
18. A Doctor of War
19. Daleks on Villengard
20. The Long Way Round
21. Doctor, I Let You Go

+ The Series 10 Soundtrack is released on 12th December 2025, priced £14.49.
+ PREORDER The Art of Time Travel on Amazon for £14.49.

+ Follow @DrWhoOnline on Twitter!

[Source: Silva Screen]

BOOK: The Art of Time Travel by Peter McKinstry [November 2025]

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 05:54:00 +0000

Penguin Books have confirmed details of an upcoming Doctor Who title, focusing on the concept art behind the show.

Peter Mckinstry’s stunning concept art and illustration is collected for the first time in this visually captivating book that takes you behind the scenes of the beloved TV series, showcasing the intricate and imaginative artwork that brings the Whoniverse to life.

From the TARDIS to the Daleks and much more, The Art of Time Travel is a treasure trove of never-before-seen concept art, sketches, and designs that offer a unique glimpse into the creative process behind the iconic show – including comments and notes from much-loved showrunner Russell T. Davies, as well as original works of art from the latest era of Doctor Who. Immerse yourself in the incredible imagination of Peter Mckinstry as he designs, develops, and realises the iconic characters, creatures, and worlds of Doctor Who in stunning detail.

+ The Art of Time Travel is released on 20th November 2025, priced £40.00.
+ PREORDER The Art of Time Travel on Amazon for £30.45 (Hardback).

+ Follow @DrWhoOnline on Twitter!

[Source: Penguin]

REVIEW: 'Tidelands: Ghosts & Monsters' By Gareth Southwell

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 11:40:00 +0000

Publisher: WoodPig Press

Written By: Gareth Southwell

RRP: £7.99 / $8.99 (Paperback) | £2.99 / $2.99 (Kindle)

Reviewed by: Sebastian J. Brook

Ghosts & Monsters (Tidelands: Part 1) by Gareth Southwell is a first for us here at DWO, as this is the first book we've reviewed that acts as a collective repository of weekly serials from the author. Sound familiar? As Doctor Who fans, I'd argue that episodic storytelling is baked into our DNA, so it's refreshing to experience it in book format.

The setting: a dystopian future, ravaged by our ability to drain resources and wreck our climate. Sound familiar? This is why I think dystopian stories work so well; you can either go off-piste and remove yourself from everything that's familiar, or you can go the route of taking what's happening now and projecting it with a futuristic lens. The latter may sound like the easiest of choices, but it's not; you have to show skill in being able to evolve humanity's story (and our planet), and take it somewhere interesting - something the author does in spades!

The disparity between the class system is palpable; for the rich, a much more comfortable existence in this world is available, but for the rest, it's dog-eat-dog in an ecosystem as fragile as the climate.

Our protagonist is a strong female lead in the form of 'Squirrel' - a girl with special abilities that allows her to tap into the minds of others and extract information in exchange for remuneration. She's beautifully (and expertly) written, and you get a real sense of journey with her character arc.

Southwell's descriptive skills are firing on all cylinders in Ghosts & Monsters; delicious details that bring people and places to life, which add to the immersive nature of the story.

Throw in a few twists and turns, and a terrific cliffhanger, you are absolutely left wanting more by the close. Just as well book 2 is already out, and we cannot wait to dive back into Southwell's immersive world!

+ Tidelands: Ghosts & Monsters is Out Now!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.co.uk!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.com!
+ Follow @DrWhoOnline (Doctor Who Online) on Twitter.

The War Games in COLOUR - Now Available on BBC iPlayer!

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Following on for the recent colourization of the Second Doctor's swansong aventure; The War Games, the BBC iPlayer has now added it to their library!

Originally aired in 1969, The War Games marked the end of an era for the Second Doctor (Patrick Troughton), following him and his companions Zoe and Jamie as they land in a battlefield that appears to be a World War I military zone—but all is not as it seems. They soon discover that soldiers from different historical periods have been abducted and are being manipulated in a cruel game. As they work to uncover the mystery behind the War Lord and his twisted experiments, the Doctor faces one of his most difficult challenges.

For the first time, these original episodes have been meticulously colourised and enhanced with updated visual effects edited into a new, 90-minute feature-length experience to appeal to today’s modern audiences. With updated sound and a new score, this newly updated version of The War Games offers both fans and newcomers even more ways to watch the much-loved classic story.

In addition, the episode also features the Second Doctor's never-before-seen regeneration into the Third Doctor (Jon Pertwee), alongside recovered footage not seen since the original broadcast.

+ WATCH The War Games on the BBC iPlayer, here.

[Source: BBC iPlayer]

Obituary: William Russell - (Classic Series Actor) - [1924-2024]

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 18:00:00 +0000

It is with deepest regret that DWO announces the passing of Classic Series Doctor Who Actor, William Russell.

William was best known by Doctor Who fans for playing the beloved role of Ian Chesterton - one of the first companions in the show, all the way back in 1963. Appearing together with Barbara and Susan, Ian accompanied the first Doctor, played by William Hartnell. His final appearance was in the 2022, 13th Doctor adventure; 'The Power Of The Doctor'.

His career highlights includes roles in Nicholas Nickleby, Hamlet, Harriet's Back In Town, Coronation Street & The Great Escape.

DWO would like to extend our sympathies to William's family and friends.

[Source: The Guardian]

Obituary: Michael Jayston - (Classic Series Actor) - [1935-2024]

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

It is with deepest regret that DWO announces the passing of Classic Series Doctor Who Actor, Michael Jayston.

Michael was known best by Doctor Who fans for playing the role of The Valeyard in the 6th Doctor's final season; The Trial Of A Time Lord.

His career highlights includes roles in Nicholas And Alexandra, Zulu Dawn, Highlander III, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, The Darling Buds Of May and Only Fools And Horses (to name just a few of his performances).

DWO would like to extend our sympathies to Michael's family and friends.

[Source: Colin Baker]

Doctor Who: Adventures in Water and Light in Cardiff Bay

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 11:10:00 +0000

In celebration of the 60th anniversary of the much-loved BBC series, Doctor Who, a special after-dark water-based projection in Cardiff Bay will take audiences on the incredible journey through 60 years of the show.

With a script arranged by former Doctor Who script editor Gary Russell and featuring the brand-new version of composer Murray Gold’s iconic theme, the audio-visual spectacle, which will launch on Doctor Who Day, will feature key highlights from throughout the many iterations of the series, including The Doctor, as well as companions and foes of the Time Lord, plus an exclusive shot featuring upcoming fifteenth Doctor Ncuti Gatwa.

The water-based projection, commissioned by BBC Wales, begins on Thursday 23rd November – Doctor Who Day - and runs until Saturday 25th November at Roath Basin in Cardiff Bay, which has a long history with the series. The after-dark showings will run every half hour from 5.30pm until 9.30pm on those days, with each lasting approximately 5 minutes. The initial switch-on, scheduled for 5.30pm on Thursday 23rd November, will be hosted by Steffan Powell, presenter of Doctor Who: Unleashed.

The longest running sci-fi TV show in the Universe, Doctor Who first appeared on BBC television on 23 November 1963, with William Hartnell as the first Doctor. Originally running for 26 years before coming to an end in 1989, the show would be relaunched triumphantly onto TV screens in 2005 after a 16-year hiatus - overseen by showrunners Russell T Davies and Julie Gardner and produced by BBC Wales.

A newly published economic impact report details how the sci-fi series has contributed to the Welsh economy. Between 2004 and 2021, Doctor Who has generated approximately £134.6m in GVA, of which more than £113.1m was in the Welsh creative industries. The report also shows that for every £1 spent on the hit series, a subsequent £0.96 is generated in Wales, making its economic contribution £1.96. The analysis considers the impact of Doctor Who from the start of production on Series 1 in 2004 to the most recent series with Jodie Whittaker as the Doctor (Series 13), which was broadcast in 2021.

Doctor Who’s return was a pivotal moment and became a catalyst for the immense growth of the Welsh creative industries over the last 15 to 20 years. The screen sector – comprising of production, post-production, digital and special effects for film and TV, and TV broadcasting – is now the largest of the five Creative Industry sub-sectors prioritised by the Welsh Government and accounted for more than £459m turnover in 2022.

In addition to the water-based projection in Cardiff Bay, the 60th anniversary celebrations will also include the opportunity for visitors to Cardiff to see the TARDIS and one of the Doctor’s most notorious villains, a Dalek, at the Senedd building from Thursday 23rd November, until Saturday 2nd December.

This builds towards the return of the series to TV screens on Saturday 25 November, with the first of three 60th Anniversary Specials to feature fourteenth Doctor David Tennant, who made a surprising return in last year’s The Power of the Doctor. Airing on BBC One and iPlayer, ‘The Star Beast’ finds The Doctor reunited with Donna Noble, played by Catherine Tate, for the first time in many years. The second of the specials, ‘Wild Blue Yonder’, airs on BBC One and iPlayer on Saturday 2 December, with ‘The Giggle’ completing the trio a week later.

Produced by Bad Wolf with BBC Studios, the specials mark the return of Russell T Davies to the Doctor Who brand as showrunner and sees him teaming up once more with Bad Wolf co-founder Julie Gardner, who is executive producer alongside Bad Wolf co-founder Jane Tranter.

The company providing the water projection is LCI Productions and permission was granted to use Roath Basin by Cardiff Council and Associated British Ports. Coleridge Cymru assisted in facilitating the project.

[Source: BBC Cymru Wales]

REVIEW: Big Finish - 1. Once And Future: Past Lives

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 11:35:00 +0000

Manufacturer: Big Finish Productions

Written By: Robert Valentine

RRP: £10.99 (CD) | £8.99 (Download)

Release Date: May 2023

Reviewed by: Robert Emlyn Slater for Doctor Who Online

“The Time War. The Doctor has been injured and brought to a Time Lord field hospital. His body glows with energy, but this is no regeneration into a future form – instead, the Doctor’s past faces begin to appear as he flits haphazardly between incarnations...

Staggering to his TARDIS, the Doctor sets out to solve the mystery of his ‘degeneration’. Who has done this to him? How? And why? From the Earth to the stars, across an array of familiar times and places, he follows clues to retrace his steps, encountering old friends and enemies along the way. Tumbling through his lives, the Doctor must stop his degeneration before he loses himself completely...

Settling as his Fourth incarnation, the Doctor goes in search of the Monk, with a vague memory that he had something to do with his ‘degeneration’.

On Earth, the Monk is meddling, bringing Sarah Jane Smith to the future UNIT HQ to steal a device for an alien race. The Doctor must help Kate Stewart and Osgood foil an invasion before he can confront the Monk about what he knows...”

WARNING: The following review contains spoilers. You have been warned!

Big Finish’s 60th anniversary party has officially begun! Past Lives is the first of an eight-part audio celebration of Doctor Who’s Diamond Anniversary - featuring most of the Doctors!

This month’s offering sees Tom Baker’s Fourth Doctor reunite with Sarah Jane as he crosses paths with Kate Stewart, Osgood, and The Meddling Monk.

We’re thrown straight into the action as the Doctor begins degenerating on a Time War battlefield. He then runs back to his TARDIS, jumping between incarnations as he does so in a really fun sequence. There’s no messing about, we’re quite literally thrown straight into the action - something I always appreciate.

With the Doctor temporarily stabilised in the form of his fourth incarnation, he’s immediately after the Meddling Monk. Their ensuing game of cat and mouse is a lot of fun - and Rufus Hound is brilliant. His version of the Monk is by far the most entertaining for me.

Also in this adventure are Kate Stewart and Osgood, played by Jemma Redgrave and Ingrid Oliver. Hearing them interact with Tom Baker’s Doctor is just a delight. I wasn’t sure how UNIT, Kate, and Osgood were going to fit into this adventure, which already has a hell of a lot going on in it, but they get a lot of “screen time” and have their own time to shine.

Unfortunately, Sarah Jane - played by Sadie Miller - does not. She feels a bit surplus to the plot here, which is a shame. The Sarah we meet in Past Lives has quite literally just been dropped off in Aberdeen by the Doctor. It might be just me, but having the Doctor and Sarah reunite so soon after her exit undercuts the emotional ending of The Hand of Fear (for Sarah at least). I didn’t really feel the emotional reunion between Sarah and the Doctor here, as a result. Sadie Miller is great in the role though, as always. It just feels like Big Finish came up with the idea of this adventure by drawing a bunch of random characters out of a hat and sticking them together (which can be a lot of fun, of course). With so much going on, one character had to pull the short straw, and it was Sarah this time.

Also, the armoured dragon warrior creatures seen on the front of the box - the Hyreth - just aren’t utilised enough to be that much of a threat here. Maybe if this drama had been longer they’d have had more time to shine, but they just feel a bit like the monster of the week unfortunately.

Those are my only criticisms though. The rest of the adventure is a great ride and leaves me really wanting more. I enjoyed the performances of all the cast - in particular Rufus Hound’s - and really enjoyed the almost anachronistic feel of having Tom Baker’s Doctor interacting with Kate and Osgood in the 2010s.

This definitely does feel like a part one of something much bigger - a taste of what’s to come. Robert Valentine’s script zips along at a hell of a pace, never really letting up from minute one. The hour or so truly flies by. In fact, I was a little surprised - and disappointed - it had ended so seemingly early.

Overall, It’s a nice, fun adventure to kick off the eight-part Once And Future story and left me really looking forward to whatever comes next (Fifth Doctor, Jenny, and Colin Baker as the Curator, to be exact). Also, there are plenty many callbacks and cameos, as is fitting of an anniversary adventure. You won’t be disappointed on that front.

It’s certainly whet my appetite for the rest of Big Finish’s 60th anniversary celebrations!

+ 1. Once And Future: Past Lives is OUT NOW, priced £10.99 (CD) | £8.99 (D/L).

+ ORDER this title from Big Finish!

BBC Studios & REALITY+ Take Doctor Who To The Sandbox Metaverse

Thu, 25 May 2023 11:53:00 +0000

BBC Studios has teamed up with Reality+ to launch a collection of immersive experiences in the metaverse based on the BBC’s world-famous brands

BBC Studios has partnered with Web3 specialist Reality+ to create a metaverse experience in The Sandbox where fans will be able to interact with immersive content from their favourite brands, including Top Gear and Doctor Who, and enjoy a BBC events space.

The joint venture between BBC Studios and Reality+ marks the first time the BBC will have a home in the metaverse, following a handful of brand activation experiments with metaverse platforms. Part virtual real estate, part amusement park, The Sandbox fully embraces the idea of the metaverse as a continuous shared digital space, in which players and brands can build, own, and monetise their experiences on blockchain.

BBC Studios joins over 400 other entertainment brands who have entered The Sandbox to date, including Warner Music Group, Ubisoft, Gucci Vault, The Walking Dead, and Adidas.

Nicki Sheard, President Brands & Licensing, BBC Studios, said:

“I’m delighted that BBC Studios is partnering with Reality+ and The Sandbox on this exciting venture. While the metaverse is still in its infancy, it may shape how we consume and experience entertainment in the future and I’m looking forward to seeing how fans interact with our brands in this space. This project forms part of BBC Studios broader ambitious plans to grow our brands into new categories, with innovative technology and platforms forming an integral part of this.”

Tony Pearce, Co-Founder, Reality+ said:

“We're excited to have extended our partnership with BBC Studios, not only to help them push the boundaries of what’s possible in the metaverse, but for the opportunity to deliver exciting new experiences for the fans of these world-renowned TV shows. We've already achieved so much with digital trading card game Doctor Who: Worlds Apart, and now with a fantastic platform like The Sandbox, there’s much more to come.”

Sebastien Borget, COO and Co-Founder at The Sandbox, added:

“We’re proud that BBC Studios chose Reality+, a certified metaverse agency partner working on The Sandbox platform, to enter the metaverse with top global brands like Doctor Who and Top Gear. The BBC has a history of pioneering content that leverages the latest technology and putting it into mainstream households. We think this venture is an important step to bringing British culture and fans into virtual worlds.”

BBC Studios’ metaverse space in The Sandbox will launch later this year and further details will be released in due course.

Reality+ helps worldwide brands transition to Web3 with bespoke product, community and development strategies, backed by an award-winning technology platform. It has previously partnered with BBC Studios to develop the Doctor Who: Worlds Apart digital trading card game.

[Source: BBC]

Murray Gold Returns As Doctor Who Composer!

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 19:00:00 +0000

Award-winning composer Murray Gold returns to Doctor Who.

Murray Gold originally joined Doctor Who when Russell T Davies first revived the show in 2005, going on to compose the show for over 12 years, he has scored some of the most iconic moments in Doctor Who’s history.

From revamping the theme tune, to creating the music for the Dalek and Cybermen to name just a few, Murray has been widely celebrated for his role in forging a new musical identity for the show.

And now he’s back! Murray Gold will once again work with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, with his musical scores appearing when Doctor Who returns in November for three special episodes celebrating the shows 60th anniversary with David Tennant as the Fourteenth Doctor, before Ncuti Gatwa takes control of the TARDIS as the Fifteenth Doctor with his first episode airing over the festive period.

On returning to Doctor Who, Murray Gold said:

“I’m so happy to be invited back for another joyful ride in the TARDIS. I didn’t think twice. Working with Russell and his team is just a pleasure.”

[Source: BBC]

Paul McGann Stars In Mia And The Dragon Princess

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Doctor Who Legend Paul McGann stars in Interactive Movie, Mia and the Dragon Princess.

Fans of the beloved 8th Doctor can look forward to an exciting, interactive movie in which your choices, matter. Race against a villainous McGann in a quest for forgotten treasure in the upcoming Mia and the Dragon Princess.

Unravel the mystery with Mia, a plucky bartender whose life is thrown into chaos when a mysterious woman shows up at her workplace, on the run from a group of violent thugs.

Your choices will guide Mia through the adventure that has over 10 different outcomes and determine the fate of Mia and her friends. Will they escape the quietly terrifying Walsh (Paul McGann)? The power is in your hands!

Mia and the Dragon Princess will punch its way to PC, Epic, Mac, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, iOS and Android on May 4th 2023. The live-action, interactive movie is available for pre-order on Steam.

Features:

- Starring Paul McGann (Doctor Who, Alien 3, Withnail & I), Brian McCardie (Time, Rob Roy) and MyAnna Buring (The Witcher, Ripper Street), Dita Tantang and Noa Bleeker.

- Featuring action designed by world-renowned fight coordinator, Marcus Shakesheff (WonderWoman, Hanna, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Batman: Arkham Asylum, Pennyworth, Guardians of the Galaxy, Game of Thrones)

- Featuring fight stunts by Taekwondo instructor and content creator with over 700M views, Aaron Gassor aka 'Ginger Ninja Trickster'

- Real time Attribute Tracking that evolves based on your choices and influences the story

- Multi-optional storytelling with 10 different outcomes

- Guest appearance by Daz Black (DazGames)

Mia and the Dragon Princess is published by Wales Interactive and developed by Wales Interactive, Good Gate Media and Dead Pixel Productions.

[Source: Wales Interactive]

Doctor Who Magazine: Issue 587 - Cover & Details

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 09:45:00 +0000

Doctor Who Magazine have sent DWO the cover and details for Issue 587.

Exclusive interview with new executive producer Joel Collins

Joel Collins, one of Doctor Who’s new executive producers, reveals how his association with the series began in the 1970s, through knowing acclaimed director Douglas Camfield and seeing the series being made…

“Douglas was, and still is, one of the biggest inspirations to me. There was something so brilliant about him. I can absolutely see now why I’m in this business. As a kid, you’re watching this show avidly on TV, and then suddenly you’re on set – touching everything, fiddling with everything, and going: ‘Oh my God, look at these miniatures and creatures and all this craziness…’ I was completely inspired by that.”

Other highlights of the new issue include:

• Liberation of the Daleks Part Four – the adventures of the Fourteenth Doctor continue in the epic comic-strip adventure written by Alan Barnes and illustrated by Lee Sullivan.
• Letter from the Showrunner – Russell T Davies on what you might have missed in the recent trailer for the 2023 Doctor Who Specials.
• Production Diary – script editor Scott Handcock files his latest report on the forthcoming episodes, direct from Doctor Who’s HQ.
• Gallifrey Guardian – all the latest official news, including exclusives from producer Phil Collinson, guest star Jemma Redgrave and casting director Andy Pryor.
• Close to the Edit – an interview with Rasheed Bello, Doctor Who’s new assistant script editor.
• Tesh and Blood – a tribute to the late Chris Boucher, including contributions from producer Philip Hinchcliffe and actress Louise Jameson, who played Leela.
• Sympathy for the Sea Devil – behind the scenes of Defenders of Earth, the trailer for the new Season 9 Blu-ray box set, with cast and crew including star Katy Manning.
• 60 Objects, 60 Years – from the UNIT beret in 1968 to the Third Doctor’s sonic screwdriver in 1972, the latest instalment of this series tells the story of one object from every year of Doctor Who’s history.
• The Fact of Fiction – inside one of the Fourth Doctor’s greatest adventures, Chris Boucher’s The Robots of Death.
• The Watchers: Sea Base 4B ¬– fans recall studio visits to see Warriors of the Deep being recorded in 1983.
• Coming Soon – an exclusive preview of the Season 9 Blu-ray box set, including a disc-by-disc breakdown of the contents.
• Other Worlds – the essential guide to forthcoming stories in the expanded Doctor Who universe.
• Previews, reviews, prize-winning competitions, Time and Space Visualiser and more.

+ Doctor Who Magazine Issue #587 is out Thursday 2nd February, priced £6.99.
+ SUBSCRIBE to Doctor Who Magazine, digitally from just £3.46 a month!
+ Check Out The DWO Guide to Doctor Who Magazine!

[Source: Doctor Who Magazine]

Doctor Who: The Collection - Season 9

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 18:00:00 +0000

BBC Studios continues to offer Doctor Who fans the opportunity to build their own home archive on Blu-ray. Debuting on 20th March is a limited edition EIGHT DISC box set of the Ninth Season from 1972, starring Jon Pertwee as the Third Doctor.

Doctor Who – The Collection: Season 9

- DAY OF THE DALEKS
- THE CURSE OF PELADON
- THE SEA DEVILS
- THE MUTANTS
- THE TIME MONSTER

Across an action-packed twenty-six episodes, the Doctor and Jo (Katy Manning) face off against Daleks, Ogrons, Sea Devils, Ice Warriors, Mutants and their old enemy the Master (Roger Delgado). Joining them in their adventures are the UNIT team of Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart (Nicholas Courtney), Captain Yates (Richard Franklin) and Sergeant Benton (John Levene).

All episodes have been newly remastered from the best available sources – these classic adventures have never looked or sounded so good on home media.

The Collection: Season 9 Blu-ray box set also includes extensive special features including:

MAKING THE TIME MONSTER
Looking back on the Season 9 finale with Katy Manning, John Levene and more.

MICHAEL E BRIANT AT THE HELM
A profile of director Michael E Briant.

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION
Katy Manning and friends revisit the filming locations of Season 9.

THE FELL GUY
A profile of prolific stuntman Stuart Fell.

BEHIND THE SOFA
Five new episodes featuring Katy Manning (Jo), Peter Davison (The Doctor), Wendy Padbury (Zoe), Sarah Sutton (Nyssa), Janet Fielding (Tegan), Sophie Aldred (Ace) and director Michael E Briant.

BLU-RAY TRAILER
A brand new slice of classic Doctor Who.

MOVIE-LENGTH EDITIONS
Special repeat screenings of Day Of The Daleks and The Sea Devils, previously unavailable.

CONVENTION FOOTAGE
A chance to hear from UNIT’s Nicholas Courtney and Richard Franklin, recorded in 1986.

5.1 SURROUND & DOLBY ATMOS SOUND
On The Sea Devils (episodic and omnibus edition).

HD PHOTO GALLERIES
Including many previously unseen images.

AUDIO ARCHIVE
Featuring many unreleased gems.

INFO TEXT
Behind-the-scenes information and trivia on every episode.

PDF ARCHIVE
Including scripts, exclusive unseen BBC production files and other rarities.

AND LOTS MORE!

This eight-disc box set also includes hours of special features previously released on DVD including Documentaries, Featurettes, Audio Commentaries, Day Of The Daleks Special Edition and more.

+ The Collection - Season 9 is released on 20th March 2023.
+ PREORDER this title from Amazon.co.uk for just £49.99!

Watch the trailer for this set in the player below:

[Source: BBC Studios]

Doctor Who: Duo Bundle from Maximum Games NOW AVAILABLE!

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Join the 13th Doctor and 10th Doctor on an epic adventure in Doctor Who: The Edge of Reality, and solve a chilling mystery in Doctor Who: The Lonely Assassins.

The Doctor Who: Duo Bundle is out now for PS4 and Switch!

+ Get it now at Smyths Toys!

[Source: Maximum Games]

The Power Of The Doctor - Trailer

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 15:00:00 +0000

The BBC have released the trailer for The Power Of The Doctor - Jodie Whittaker's final outing as the Thirteenth Doctor!

In the trailer we see The Master, Daleks, Cybermen, and appearances from previous companions Ace & Tegan.

The Power Of The Doctor airs on Sunday 23rd October at 7:30pm.

[Source: BBC]

REVIEW: 'The Last Keeper' By J.V. Hilliard

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 17:38:00 +0000

Publisher: Dragon Moon Press

Written By: J.V. Hilliard

RRP: £12.82 / $19.95 (Paperback) | £3.77 / $4.63 (Kindle)

Reviewed by: Sebastian J. Brook

The Last Keeper (book 1 in J.V. Hilliard's 'Warminster' series), is a thrilling fantasy, rich in plot, detail and character, but more than this - it's the beginning of a promising series of gripping adventures.

I'm coming into this book as a fully-fledged, paid-up fan of the fantasy genre. The Lord Of The Rings was a staple growing up, and just a few pages into The Last Keeper and I instantly felt that warm, familiar comfort in Hilliard's storytelling.

It's a classic tale of good vs evil, but on a much more multi-layered canvas that is constantly throwing fresh twists and turns, and - perhaps what I loved most - unpredictability.

The story focuses on Daemus Alaric - a young, blind Keeper with the gift of foresight, who must use his abilities to counter the dark motives of Graytorris the Mad. Daemus is an incredibly likeable character who you never tire of during the story. He, like many other characters in the book, is multi-faceted, and oozing with depth and colour.

Nothing in the story feels accidental; everyone who steps into the pages of this book has purpose and meaning, and bring different, complimenting flavours to this rich world. And speaking of the world, I have no reservation in saying that I've read scores of fantasy books over the years, and the world-building that Hilliard shows here, is among the very finest...even Tolkien would be proud! From place names to the details of the magic system, we are constantly treated to layer upon layer of immersive storytelling.

What goes hand-in-hand with the world-building is the author's fantastic grasp of the English language, and his almost poetic style through description. I defy anyone to read the first two paragraphs and not get instantly swept up in this magical realm.

I love books that end on a cliffhanger, and without wishing to spoil anything, we get that here. The idea that you achieve the end of a truly thrilling story, only to find you have to wait to discover what happens next is a wonderful tool in an author's arsenal, but it has to be executed carefully. And execution is something that Hilliard wields masterfully, much like most of his approach to writing. I simply cannot wait to read the next instalment in the series, and strongly recommend The Last Keeper as THE summer read for all fans of fantasy!

+ The Last Keeper is Out Now!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.co.uk!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.com!
+ Follow @JVHilliardBooks on Twitter.
+ Follow @SebastianJBrook (Sebastian J. Brook) on Twitter.
+ Follow @DrWhoOnline (Doctor Who Online) on Twitter.

Doctor Who: The Target Collection - July Titles

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:00:00 +0000

Penguin Books has been in touch with details of four more titles for their expanding Doctor Who Target range. The books will be published on 14th July 2022, each with newly commissioned cover artwork by Anthony Dry, in the style of the late Chris Achilleos, whose artwork graced a number of the original releases.

Penned by the original scriptwriter the late David Fisher and adapted from his 2011 and 2014 audio novelisations, The Stones of Blood, and The Androids of Tara are now being released as two glorious Target books for fans to add to their collections. These will be accompanied by a Target edition of The Fires of Pompeii by James Moran, as well as The Eaters of Light by Rona Munro.

For Doctor Who fans, the range of novelisations published by Target Books in the 1970s and 1980s hold a special place. There was a novel published for almost every Doctor Who serial between 1963 and 1989, with a very few (five, actually) notable exceptions. Since 2012, BBC Books has been successfully reissuing these classic paperbacks and expanding the Target range to include all-new novelisations of modern-era Doctor Who episodes.

These latest additions to the collection, all by the original writers of the TV episodes, will help Target fans complete their classic and modern-era collections.

James Moran said:

"I’ve been watching Doctor Who and reading the Target books for as long as I can remember. The books were an essential part of my childhood, examining the amazing cover art, and “seeing” stories that aired before I was born. I loved learning new words from them, like “capacious”, and am beyond thrilled to become part of this publishing legend!"

Rona Munro said:

"It’s wonderful to have another chance to revisit the ideas of my last Doctor Who story, Eaters of Light, they are ideas that have been with me for a very long time and Doctor Who, as always, proved to be the largest and most exciting world in which to realise them."

+ PREORDER The Stones Of Blood on Amazon for £6.55 (RRP: £7.99)!
+  PREORDER The Androids Of Tara on Amazon for £6.55 (RRP: £7.99)
+  PREORDER The Fires Of Pompeii on Amazon for £6.55 (RRP: £7.99)
+  PREORDER The Eaters Of Light on Amazon for £6.55 (RRP: £7.99)

+ Follow @JamesMoran on Twitter!
+ Follow @DrWhoOnline on Twitter!

[Source: Penguin]

Ncuti Gatwa IS The 14th Doctor!

Sun, 08 May 2022 13:20:00 +0000

The BBC has today announced Ncuti Gatwa is the new Doctor set to take charge of the TARDIS.

Star of stage and screen, Ncuti is best known for his critically acclaimed performance in Sex Education as the iconic Eric Effiong, for which he was awarded Best Actor Award at the Scottish BAFTA’s in 2020 as well as numerous nominations including Best Male Performance in a comedy programme at this year’s BAFTA’s.

Speaking of his new role, Ncuti said:

“There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared. This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care.

I will endeavour my upmost to do the same. Russell T Davies is almost as iconic as the Doctor himself and being able to work with him is a dream come true. His writing is dynamic, exciting, incredibly intelligent and fizzing with danger. An actor’s metaphorical playground. The entire team have been so welcoming and truly give their hearts to the show. And so as much as it’s daunting, I’m aware I’m joining a really supportive family. Unlike the Doctor, I may only have one heart but I am giving it all to this show.”

Russell T Davies, Showrunner adds:

“The future is here and it’s Ncuti! Sometimes talent walks through the door and it’s so bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand back in awe and thank my lucky stars. Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds. It’s an honour to work with him, and a hoot, I can’t wait to get started. I’m sure you’re dying to know more, but we’re rationing ourselves for now, with the wonderful Jodie’s epic finale yet to come. But I promise you, 2023 will be spectacular!”

Charlotte Moore, Chief Content Officer said:

“Ncuti has an incredible dynamism, he’s a striking and fearless young actor whose talent and energy will set the world alight and take Doctor Who on extraordinary adventures under Russell T Davies’ new era."

Further details will be announced in due course.

[Source: BBC]

Old Friends And Villains Return for Doctor Who BBC Centenary Special

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 18:38:00 +0000

A first look at Doctor Who’s feature-length Centenary special, and Jodie Whittaker’s final episode, has revealed the return of the Doctor’s biggest adversary – The Master (Sacha Dhawan), who last appeared in series 12’s final episode The Timeless Children.

And for the first time since the show returned to BBC One in 2005, The Master, the Daleks and the Cybermen will all feature in one single story.

The trail, which aired after the Easter special Legend of the Sea Devils, also revealed the surprise return of two of the Doctor’s companions from earlier eras of the show. Janet Fielding as Tegan Jovanka - companion to both the Fourth and Fifth Doctors - and Sophie Aldred as Ace - companion to the Seventh Doctor, will reprise their roles on screen for the first time since leaving the show.

Showrunner Chris Chibnall says:

“Jodie’s final feature-length story contains a plethora of treats and surprises for audiences and fans, not least the return of two of the most beloved companions in the show’s history. They’ll be helping the Doctor fight on three fronts, against her deadliest enemies: the Master, Daleks and Cybermen, in one huge story!

For the BBC’s Centenary, we’ll be celebrating the past, present and future of Doctor Who, in a fittingly thrilling, epic and emotional send-off for the Thirteenth Doctor."

Janet Fielding says:

“In some ways it was a very different experience to what it was like when I finished recording in 1983, but in many ways it was very similar. It was so lovely to be a working member of the Doctor Who family again.”

Sophie Aldred says:

“It’s been quite a challenge to have such a big secret to keep, even from my family, and I couldn’t be more thrilled and excited to have been asked back. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as I adored being part of the TARDIS team again.”

Also confirmed to be taking to the screen for the Doctor’s epic battle for survival are Vinder (Jacob Anderson) and Kate Stewart (Jemma Redgrave) .

Written by Chris Chibnall and directed by Jamie Magnus Stone, the feature-length special will air later this year as part of the BBC’s Centenary celebrations, with further details to be confirmed in due course.

+ WATCH the trailer for the centenary special in the player, below:

[Source: BBC Studios]

REVIEW: 'Quillan Creek And The Little War' By Ian Hunter

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Publisher: Self Published

Written By: Ian Hunter

RRP: £8.99 / $10.99 (Paperback) | £4.99 / $5.99 (Kindle)

Reviewed by: Mary Anne Yarde at The Coffee Pot Book Club

It was a gift, a source of great power. But with such power came great responsibly and unfortunately no handbook.

One minute, Tiponi was trying to find a way not to spend the day weaving baskets with her mother and the next she was fleeing for her life, alone.

Jessie Mason was alone. She did not have a family. She did not have any friends. All she had was the courage to battle on and a strange yet beautifully coloured stone. But then the earth rumbled, and she fell through a crevice, and everything changed.

It was not every day that you found yourself in the company of Custer, Lieutenant-Colonel, of the Seventh Cavalry. After that, the day took a decidable downwards turn for Abe, and the only thing he had left of his former life were the clothes that he was in and a stone.

The unworthy were returned to the earth, but Kesejowaase was beginning to suspect that the Great Spirit did not have a hand in this magic. Who were these strangers that the ground spat out? And how did they know the tongue of the Haudenosaunee? There was only one person who could unravel this mystery, and that was Nishkamich, the tribe's shaman.

Nishkamich knew of the stones, he knew of their power, for he had one of his own. But his time in this world was nearing an end, and he had to teach those who would come after him everything he knew.

However, it soon becomes clear to Nishkamich that the stones are being hunted by a man who wanted them for his own malicious intention. He must never be allowed to take them…

From a harrowing slaughter to the realisation of a terrible truth, Quillan Creek And The Little War (Time Stones Book I) by Ian Hunter is in all ways a time-travel fantasy triumph!

Hunter weaves the elements of frontier adventure, fantasy, warfare and the racial conflicts of the era into a story that is next to impossible to put down. The dark foreshadowing at the beginning of this book and the utter confusion of the protagonists as they search for answers makes this the kind of novel where the reader really feels that they too are on this incredible journey of discovery. This is a book that captured my attention from the opening sentence, and it continued to hold it until that emotionally powerful final full stop. This is the kind of book that one would forgo sleep to finish.

The forbidding landscape of the Haudenosaunee tribe is a stark contrast to modern-day America. The air is cleaner, the life is more in tune with nature, and there is a wonderful balance that is missing in the fast-paced high-tech life we all know. However, this is the beginning of the end for the Haudenosaunee tribe as they contend not only with their enemies but foreign invaders who bring war, disease, and death. And this is where our brave protagonists, who all come from very different times, find themselves. It is here, in this frontier setting, that the heroes of this story come together and change the very definition of family — they quickly realise that family is not defined by blood. It is defined in loyal friendship and unbreakable bonds.

Jessie Mason is a character who one can instantly relate to because she is from modern times. When she finds herself in a vastly different world the first thing she notices is that the lake, which she knows well, is full of life — whereas in her time there is no life, the lake is polluted. Jessie is also one of the most pragmatic characters, and she approaches this adventure with an open mind, and she embraces the opportunity of what has been given to her even if she does not understand it. Jessie was wonderfully portrayed, and she is a fabulous role model for young adults, for she triumphs despite her adversaries, whether that be in modern times or the past and she is a genuinely lovely person. There is no pretence about her at all. I thought her depiction was brilliant.

Of all the characters in this story, it is Kesejowaase that is the most conflicted for he had envisaged a vastly different life for himself than the one he finds himself living, and yet he does not shrink from his responsibilities, nor does he fight against it. His loyalty to his friends and his family are absolute, and he will do everything possible to make sure everyone is safe. His selfless acts of courage and his bravery makes for a very appealing protagonist.

The wilds of the frontier is the perfect backdrop for a story that is rife with action, adventure and magic. The enthralling narrative, and the equally compelling prose, paints a historical setting that is rich in authenticity. The attention to the historical detail has to be commended. Hunter has brought the frontier back to life in both its glorious and darker detail, although he is forever mindful of his book’s intended audience — the language used in this novel reflects that. There are moments of trepidation, fear, and battles, but there is nothing unsuitable for a young adult audience.

I thought Hunter really captured this era and what it must have been like to live through it. The relationship between the various tribes and the influence that the white traders were beginning to have on the native people was realistically portrayed. A beaver’s fur could buy things that the Haudenosaunee now needed because they were in the middle of what we would call an arms war — they needed the modern white-mans' weapons if their people were to have any chance of survival. The greed of man and the wilful destruction of the wildlife and the natives is also touched upon, which I thought validated the legitimacy of the setting that Hunter has so masterfully created.

Quillan Creek And The Little War (Time Stones Book I) by Ian Hunter is an enthralling adventure that begs to be read again and again. I cannot wait to get my hands on Book #2 of what promises to be an absolutely brilliant series. Highly Recommend

+ Quillan Creek And The Little War is Out Now!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.co.uk!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.com!
+ Follow @IanHunterAuthor on Twitter.
+ Follow @DrWhoOnline (Doctor Who Online) on Twitter.

Unofficial Doctor Who Annuals Re-released In Aid Of Lullaby Trust

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 11:33:00 +0000

Later this year, Terraqueous Distributors will be re-releasing their whole range of previous unofficial Doctor Who annuals, starting with the 1972 annual.

Terraqueous Distributors said:

"When we announced that we would give access to the 1988 annual alternate contributors edition cover to everyone who donated to the Lullaby Trust, we were asked if we would do the same for the past annuals, when we re-release them. We originally said no.

However, we've had a change of heart. So for everyone who has, and who will make a donation to the Lullaby Trust. not only will they get their name (or the name of a loved one), printed in the 1988 annual, they will also have access to the 1972, 1987, 1988, 1989, and the Master annual 2074, contributors editions, when they are re-released later this year."

All you have to do is make a £5 minimum donation over at https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/. You will then receive two emails, one from The Lullaby Trust thanking you for your donation, and the second from WORLDPAY, with your transaction confirmation. This email is your proof of donation, you can either forward this email to 'doctorwhoannual@aol.co.uk' with LULLABY DONATION - in the subject bar - (don't worry no personal, payment or bank information is included in this email).

You then need to send a 2nd email to 'doctorwhoannual@aol.co.uk' with your name or the name of a loved one, exactly how you would like it printed in the annual.

[Source: Mark W]

Colin Baker In Secrets Of A Wallaby Boy [Movie]

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 10:53:00 +0000

Our friends over at Weird Rainbow Films have been in touch about a new comedy feature film, starring Colin Baker (the 6th Doctor). Secrets of a Wallaby Boy will be shot in Manchester this Spring, and is a modern, queer update on the cheeky British comedies of the ‘70s, such as Confessions of a Window Cleaner.

When Tim becomes a courier for the app Wallaby, he reckons he can turn his life around: get fit, earn some money, and even get laid. He’s not accounted for his own haplessness, an antique teapot collection, and a sinister conspiracy.

Alongside Colin, Secrets of a Wallaby Boy stars Brandon McCaffrey and Billie Hindle, as well as recognisable faces Mark Benton (Anna and the Apocalypse, Waterloo Road, Murphy’s Law) and Laurence R. Harvey (The Human Centipede 2 & 3).

Colin has already recorded his voice role, and the animation of Bruce will be carried out by Ilan Sheady of Uncle Frank Productions.

On Colin’s casting, writer/director Kieron Moore says:

“I’m absolutely thrilled to bring Colin Baker on board as the voice of Bruce. We had a great time recording with him – his hilarious performance had the team all laughing and we can't wait to share it with all of you as part of the movie.”

Brandon McCaffrey adds:

“Words cannot describe my feelings on Colin being cast as Bruce. I’m incredibly excited to work with him. He’s been a favourite actor of mine for many many years, as anyone that knows me will tell you.

To be working with someone of his calibre is incredible, and especially on a project such as Secrets of a Wallaby Boy. I just know that this bonkers project just got crazier and I expect you all to love every single second.”

The team at Weird Rainbow Films have a significant chunk of budget already in place and are currently running a crowdfunding campaign on Greenlit in order to make the film the best it can be.

+ The Greenlit page can be found here: https://greenlit.com/project/secrets-wallaby-boy

[Source: Weird Rainbow Films]

REVIEW: 'Inside Out' By Thorne Moore

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 13:31:00 +0000

Publisher: Pear Tree Publications

Written By: Thorne Moore

RRP: £12.41 / $20.88 (Paperback) | £1.99 / $2.99 (Kindle)

Reviewed by: Sebastian J. Brook

Inside Out by Thorne Moore, is a Science Fiction tale with heart and soul, that takes the reader to the edge of our solar system, the edge of humanity, and, at times, the edge of your seat!

We join the passengers of the ISF Heloise, as they embark on the 11-month journey to Triton Station, Neptune. It's a mixed bag for our seven principal players, but all of them share a common interest in the work ahead of them. Once they complete their seven-year mission, huge rewards potentially await them.

At first glance, this looks like Big Brother in space, but scratch beyond the surface and there's an almost Orwellian, direct style to this story. Despite being set in the future, and in space, this is a story about the people rather than the purpose - and I must say, it makes for a breath of fresh air. Each character is rich, detailed and gets their chance to shine, and by the end, they have each earned your attention and empathy.

Speaking of characters, I think one of the stand out qualities in Moore's work is her use of character dialogue. It's real, and almost tangible in the way it jumps off the page. It doesn't feel scripted or forced, but lived-in, and, more importantly, natural.

There are some shocks and surprises along the way, and without giving too much away, everything from Ganymede Alpha onwards, had me finishing the book in one sitting. Something I don't do very often, for the record.

It's worth noting that Science Fiction is a break in genre for Moore - not that you'd be able to tell, however. What we have here smacks of a seasoned storyteller in the SciFi space, but one who paints in between the cracks to flesh out the characters and bring some reality into the mix. We couldn't help but see the parallel between this style and Russell T. Davies approach when he brought Doctor Who back to our screens in 2005. Mixing the 'out there' elements of SciFi, with the mundanity of real life, somehow works so well; one tempers the other, almost enhancing it like salt in caramel.

There's an almost prophetic ending via the author's afterword, which we refuse to spoil. It is a strong drum beat that will reverberate in your mind for some time to come.

Really hoping that Moore continues this series - there's a lot of road ahead, and we can't wait to clock up some more mileage with this incredibly talented author!

+ Inside Out is Out Now!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.co.uk!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.com!
+ Follow @ThorneMoore on Twitter.
+ Follow @SebastianJBrook (Sebastian J. Brook) on Twitter.
+ Follow @DrWhoOnline (Doctor Who Online) on Twitter.

Terraqueous Distributors presents The Dr Who Unofficial Annual 1988

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 12:23:00 +0000

Coming March 2022 – The Dr Who Unofficial Annual 1988, the sixth release from Terraqueous Distributors.

As many fans will notice, the cover artwork is a homage to the 1969 Dr Who annual that was released in 1968 by World Distributors. The cover is beautifully illustrated by artist Daryl Joyce.

The unofficial Dr Who annual 1988 is another great mix of stories, features, puzzles and artwork. And, thanks to the kindness of Bill Baggs and James Hornby, the Cyberons officially make an appearance in the annual. Although these Cyberons may not be the ones you’re expecting, redesigned by James Lee, their intergalactic menace proves to be a mighty force to be reckoned with.

But it’s not just the Cyberons the Doctor and Mel have to look out for. Within the pages of the 1988 annual, the great vampire Dracula is looking for blood - Time Lord blood!

As many will be aware, Bram Stoker created the original Dracula, and thanks to Dacre Stoker and Chris McAuley, we have been given permission to use the original Stoker Dracula in not one but three original blood curdling tales. The 1988 annual is certainly not a safe place for the Doctor and Mel.

And the Doctor makes a return to Kandalinga, where his first incarnation met the Fishmen. ‘The Coral Eaters’ is an epic sequel to 'The Fishmen of Kandalinga’, written by Andrew McDonald, and illustrated by Faiz Rehman. The Fishmen of Kandalinga was a story from the pages of the very first Dr Who annual. And what better way to celebrate the annuals of the past, than by visiting some old friends, well maybe not friends...

The 1988 annual includes contributions from well-known names such as John Freeman, Alister Pearson, Bonnie Langford, Smuzz, Andy Walker, Paul McCaffrey, Shannon Gallant, and many more. And this time we have the sixth Doctor himself joining the list of contributors.

Terraqueous Distributors also invite you to make a £5 minimum donation to the charity 'Lullaby Trust', and all those who do, will have their name (or the name of a loved one) printed in the annual on the page of heroes. Proof of donation is required. Further details can be found on the TERRAQUEOUS DISTRIBUTORS facebook page.

This annual also marks the end of an era - the 80's era. World Distributors ended their run of classic Doctor Who annuals with the 1986 annual. With the release of the 1988 annual, Terraqueous have completed the 80's run of the classic annuals, having previously released the 1987 and 1989 annuals.

Also later in 2022, Terraqueous Distributors will be releasing The Unofficial Dr Who annual 1997. This will be the only annual dedicated to the eighth Doctor.

The Unofficial Dr Who Annual 1988, is a not-for-profit publication, and the price of the annual will be determined nearer the time of its release, when the precise date of publication and details of how it can be purchased will also be announced.

+ To donate to the Lullaby Trust, please visit https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/
Once you have made your donation, please email: doctorwhoannual@aol.co.uk.

[Source: Mark W]

REVIEW: 'Journey To New Salem' By Mark Rosendorf

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 22:29:00 +0000

Publisher: Wild Rose Press

Written By: Mark Rosendorf

RRP: £12.99 / $10.21 (Paperback) | £3.59 / $4.99 (Kindle)

Reviewed by: Sebastian J. Brook

Following on from our review earlier this year for Mark Rosendorf's The Witches Of Vegas, we were incredibly excited to get stuck into its new sequel; Journey To New Salem.

Set a year after the events of the first book, the Vegas show is bigger than ever, and things are equally going just as strong for teen witch Isis and her magician boyfriend Zack. That is until Isis begins suffering from seizures that have destructive effects...

In order to save Isis, they must travel across the globe to the titular New Salem, where they hope to find another coven of witches, and with it an unlikely figure as a potential remedy for her seizures.

We can't hide the fact that the evil Valeria is back and we simply love the polarity between her and Isis. It's such a typical good vs evil, principal vs absolute, driving force that elevates the story.

There's a perfect peppering of suspense and some surprising plot twists which build strongly on the precedent that Rosendorf set in The Witches Of Vegas. In fact, worthy of note is how many other breadcrumbs the author has been scattering, that come into play here in book 2. Kudos for his masterplan for world-building, and subsequently, its masterful execution.

Although the actual journey to New Salem is a relatively short one (thanks to some handy witchcraft), the true journey is the one that the characters go on both individually and in wholly in aid of Isis.

Speaking of characters, the ones you loved from the first book are built upon even more here; some even have new-found abilities, and you love them even more. There's also a new set of characters to love (and hate). Zack has a more central role in this book, and we're all for it, as Rosendorf has written an incredibly lovable hero in Zack, who really comes into his own here.

It's very rare that a sequel is considered even better than the first in the series, but that's exactly what Rosendorf has done with Journey To New Salem. It's a tighter, more suspenseful, more impactful book, that is pushing towards a greater arc. The stakes are higher and by the closing chapter, you are dropped in the middle of a bittersweet predicament that will have you clawing for book three.

+ Journey To New Salem is Out Now!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.co.uk!
+ Buy this book from Amazon.com!
+ Follow @MarkRosendorf on Twitter.
+ Follow @SebastianJBrook (Sebastian J. Brook) on Twitter.
+ Follow @DrWhoOnline (Doctor Who Online) on Twitter.

We ♥ BBC iPlayer!

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 22:56:40 +0000

Just a quick heads up to everybody reading in the United Kingdom - the complete Sarah Jane Adventures series boxset is available right now (for free) on the BBC iPlayer service.

Yep. That's every episode made. So says Russell T Davies himself:

What are you waiting for? Start that 11th anniversary marathon NOW!!*

*Looks like it's available for 2 months - so until approx mid-April.

Season Five Arrives!

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 16:31:43 +0000

By now you've heard that Big Finish have produced an officially sanctioned Torchwood: Season 5 - well, it's available right now!

The new adventures - titled 'Aliens Among Us' - bring Jack and Gwen back together in Cardiff, where they set up a brand spanking new team-T, which includes characters created by Russell T Davies himself.

Enough from us. Go listen, right now.

Torchwood's back. Enjoy!

Bizarrely Named Adventure!

Thu, 16 Feb 2017 09:47:09 +0000

Those cheeky chappies at Big Finish have announced a new Torchwood audio drama coming this June. It's called torchwood_cascade_CDRIP.tor (yes, really!) and features Naoko Mori as Tosh.

The cover & synopsis:

WARNING: The unauthorised reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Your downloads are monitored. Internet piracy is a crime and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, a fine of £250,000 or death.

Come on, we’ve all done it. We’ve all downloaded a cheeky little something we shouldn’t have. After all, what’s the harm, eh? You never get caught. No-one knows. No-one knocks at your door and tells you you’re about to die.

Turns out, there’s something hiding in the internet. It knows what you’ve done. And it’s going to stop you.

Written & Directed by Scott Handcock

Meanwhile last week saw the release of the first issue of Titan Comics' Torchwood: Volume Two. They've kindly provided preview pages for the issue:

The issue can be bought from all comic book shops - or through Forbidden Planet.com (ships internationally)

DW: Gaze Of The Medusa [Preview]

Mon, 30 Jan 2017 12:33:27 +0000

Out now from Titan Comics - the collected Doctor Who mini-series, Gaze Of The Medusa! Written by Gordon Rennie and Emma Beeby, and with art by Brian Williamson - the story features the Fourth Doctor and Sarah Jane Smith against an enemy you won't see coming (unless you want to be turned to stone!)...

The cover, and 4 preview pages from within:

The book can be picked up from comic book shops, or online at Forbidden Planet.com (ships internationally).

Out Now - Torchwood One: Before The Fall

Fri, 20 Jan 2017 10:19:35 +0000

Torchwood One: Before The Fall, a new boxset from Big Finish covering London's Torchwood One, has been released. In it, Tracy-Ann Oberman reprises her role as Yvonne Hartman alongside Gareth David-Lloyd (Ianto Jones) - in linked stories set before Doctor Who's Army of Ghosts.

Featuring three new stories:

New Girl by Joseph Lidster

It’s Rachel Allan’s first day at Torchwood. Torchwood only takes the brightest and the best – and Rachel’s wondering if Yvonne Hartman’s made a terrible mistake in picking her. Plunged into a world of alien invasions and office politics, Rachel’s desperate to fit in. For one thing, she really wants this job. And, for another, she knows what happens at Torchwood if you fail.

Through The Ruins by Jenny T Colgan

Away Days at Torchwood aren’t what you’d expect. Yes, there’s the forced camaraderie, the team-building exercises, and the chance for long-held rivalries to boil over. But Torchwood Away Days also have the potential to get very lethal very quickly. Yvonne Hartman’s extremely worried by this year’s Away Day. But she’s got other things on her mind – something’s very wrong with Torchwood.

Uprising by Matt Fitton

Torchwood has experienced some radical changes, but things are finally settling down. Everyone has pulled together and is trying to put the past behind them. Well, except for Yvonne Hartman – she’s out to win the future. There’s one problem. Someone seems to have started an interstellar war. Someone who knows Torchwood from the inside out.

You can click here to order!

DW: Slaver's Song - Part 1 [Comic Preview]

Wed, 18 Jan 2017 07:48:50 +0000

Out today from Titan Comics... #9 of their ongoing Doctor Who: The Ninth Doctor series!

Jack features within, and this current storyline may answer the long lingering question of what happened to those missing 2 years of Captain Jack's memories...

We've been sent some preview pages from our friends at Titan:

(Apologies about the resolution quality of that last image.)

You can order the issue by clicking here.

Meanwhile another storyline from the series - titled Doctormania, and also featuring Captain Jack - is released collected in graphic novel form.

That book can be ordered internationally from here.

Elsewhere... Torchwood 2 #1 hits shelves on February 8th!

Titan Comics - Torchwood 2 Updates

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 10:28:32 +0000

Titan Comics have changed the release dates for the Torchwood 2 series:

Torchwood 2 #1

Captain Jack Harkness, Gwen Cooper and the rest of the crew of the Ice Maiden investigate a case the likes of which even they haven’t seen before! Does the ship’s unconventional crew have what it takes?

Release date now 08/02/17 (was 01/02/17)

Torchwood 2 #2

Jack, Gwen and the crew of the Ice Maiden must stop the threat that started in the Skagerrak Strait, before disaster ensues. And what is Rona’s secret? Meanwhile, the mystery of Lady Karina and Torchwood House continues!

Release date now 08/03/17 (was 01/03/17)

Torchwood 2 #3

The Torchwood team must deal with the threat posed by Lady Karina, but can they find out her secret and stop her plans? And the mystery of Rona continues; can the Ice Maiden crew find out more about their young stowaway?

Release date now 05/04/17 (was 29/03/17)

Torchwood 2 #4

Synopsis... classified!

Release date now 03/05/17 (was 26/04/17)

***

The four issues will be collected into a graphic novel later in 2017.

Burn! 'Eggs! The Full Monty!

Mon, 16 Jan 2017 16:34:51 +0000

Since the last update, Big Finish have released a full statement confirming Burn Gorman's return to Torchwood!

"WE'VE GOT BURN!!! It's so exciting," says producer James Goss. "We've been trying to get Burn Gorman since we started. We've been hunting him across the globe, from Man In The High Castle to And Then There Were None, and we kept getting so close - and then he vanished into the depths of Hungary to make a film for months - but as soon as the project wrapped he was raring to go"

The full statement can be read by clicking here!

Meanwhile the Radio Times spotting a cheeky reference to Torchwood hidden within episode 2 of Sherlock's fourth series (click here to read the story).

And! There's a trailer for Kai Owen's UK tour of The Full Monty. Of course you want to see it!

Click here for an interview with Kai about the production.

It's Burn, Baby!

Tue, 10 Jan 2017 10:41:48 +0000

The latest Big Finish podcast reveals some great news - actor Burn Gorman is returning to Torchwood! He's set to reprise his role as Owen Harper in an upcoming audio adventure. We're promised more news this Friday via Big Finish and excited producer James Goss. Watch this space!

The current release schedule for the new audios, plus Titan's ongoing comic (please be aware that dates for the comics slip quite often - we'll do our best to update you on changes):

TORCHWOOD: VOLUME 1 ARRIVES IN APRIL

January 2017

The Torchwood Archives goes on general release.

March 2017

01/03: Torchwood #2.2 (Titan Comic)

29/03: Torchwood #2.3 (Titan Comic)

31/03: Visiting Hours (BF audio - with Rhys)

April 2017

11/04: Torchwood: Volume 1 (Titan Comic, collecting #1.1-1.4)

26/04: Torchwood #2.4 (Titan Comic)

30/04: The Dollhouse (BF audio - with 1970's Torchwood LA!)

May 2017

31/05: Corpse Day (BF audio - with PC Andy Davidson)

June 2017

07/06: Torchwood #3.1 (Titan Comic)

30/06: TBA (BF audio - cast TBC)

July 2017

12/07: Torchwood #3.2 (Titan Comic)

31/07: TBA (BF audio - cast TBC)

August 2017

16/08: Torchwood #3.3 (Titan Comic)

31/08: TBA (BF audio - cast TBC)

September 2017

20/09: Torchwood #3.4 (Titan Comic)

Meanwhile you can currently pick up Torchwood: Rift War (a comic strip adventure that originally featured in Titan's Torchwood: The Official Magazine) for £2.99.

SJA's 10th Anniversary!

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 13:47:35 +0000

It's a happy 10th birthday to The Sarah Jane Adventures. The series launched on New Year's Day 2007 with its brilliant, colourful pilot episode - Invasion of the Bane. A series followed in the autumn, and every autumn up to 2011.

To celebrate the milestone, a group known as the Attic are reuniting as many members of the cast and crew as they possibly can, for a one-off event this July. Click here to be taken to their website.

Confirmed so far to attend are:

Tommy Knight (Luke Smith)
Daniel Anthony (Clyde Langer)
Anjli Mohindra (Rani Chandra)
Yasmin Paige (Maria Jackson)
Mina Anwar (Gita Chandra)
Katy Manning (Jo Jones nee Grant)
Joss Agnew (Director)
Phil Ford (Writer)
Gary Russell (Script Editor)
Joe Lidster (Writer)
Scott Handcock (Runner)
Richard Wisker (George in the episode 'Lost in Time')
Cheryl Rowlands (A nun in the episode 'Eye of the Gorgon')
Paul Marc Davies (The Trickster)

They'll be auctions of scripts, merchandise and other bits and bobs. All proceeds go towards children's hospice Ty Hafan.

Why don't you join them Saturday 29th July, and celebrate what remains a fantastic show!

'The Return of Doctor Mysterio' Roundup

Mon, 26 Dec 2016 12:57:31 +0000

'The Return of Doctor Mysterio' has now been aired in the UK, here is the round up of the reactions and reviews from around the web, for those of you who haven't seen it yet beware as this will all be considered SPOILERS.

A Week Of Big Finishes

Sun, 11 Sep 2016 19:20:24 +0000

It's been a busy week for Torchwood updates - all courtesy of Big Finish Productions.

Firstly, The Torchwood Archive was announced; a release to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the series launch in October. It reunites the original series cast (bar Burn Gorman), ties into the current Committee storyline, and tells tales from across the Torchwood timeline. It's a perfect celebration of the show - so thanks Big Finish, we promise to pre-order it now!

Meanwhile they'll be another series of 6 single disc releases coming in 2017 - the first of which features the return of Rhys' Mum! Once more the series will jump across Torchwood's history, and we'll visit the Torchwood of 1970's L.A.!

There's two prequel boxsets coming...

The first is Torchwood: Before The Fall, which takes place at Torchwood London's Canary Wharf arm. It tells the story of when Ianto Jones worked for Yvonne Hartman, and is out in January.

Then, The Lives of Captain Jack! It tells the story of Jack immediately following Doctor Who's The Parting Of The Ways as he lies trapped in the year 200,101 - recently returned to life, on a post-Dalek Earth! It then skips ahead to his life in the 20th and 21st Centuries, and will guest star Jackie Tyler and Midshipman Alonso Frame!

***

Titan Comic's Torchwood comic continues its monthly releases. Issue 2 is coming 28th September.

Titans

Tue, 19 Apr 2016 23:24:57 +0000

Of course you've heard by now that Torchwood is returning in comic book form. Via publishers Titan Comics:

Titan Comics is excited to announce that Doctor Who TV spinoff Torchwood is back, in an all-new ongoing comic series starring the daring Captain Jack Harkness and Gwen Cooper.

Written by Captain Jack himself – John Barrowman – and Carole E. Barrowman, and with issues illustrated byAntonio Fuso (Drive, The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest) and Pasquale Qualano (Batman ’66, She Hulk, Harley Quinn), this spectacular original ongoing series is not to be missed.

In continuity with the new hit Torchwood audio dramas from Big Finish, as part of the official continuation of theTorchwood saga, the comic arrives in stores on July 6 – the week of Titan’s third annual Doctor Who Comics Day event – Saturday, July 9 2016.

The BAFTA-winning cult science-fiction drama by Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies, which aired for four successful seasons from 2006 to 2011, follows the exploits of Captain Jack, Gwen (Eve Myles - Broadchurch), and their team as they investigate the unusual, the strange, and the extraterrestrial.

The hotly anticipated Torchwood comic sees Captain Jack return to Cardiff to engage the help of the last person who expected to see him again, Gwen Cooper! A dark technology from a forgotten species has been claimed by a conspiratorial power… and in this collision between an ancient civilization and an all-new evil, the Earth itself may be forfeit! Only Jack, Gwen, and their allies from what remains of Torchwood hold the key to stopping a cataclysmic wave of destruction… On the road, on the run, and under fire – can Jack and Gwen put aside their differences and rebuild the heart of Torchwood… before its flame is stamped out forever?!

The debut issue comes with variant covers to collect from Doctor Who superstar artists including Tommy Lee Edwards(Tenth Doctor, Turf), Elena Casagrande (Tenth Doctor, The X-Files), Blair Shedd (Ninth Doctor), and Rod Reis (Doctor Who, C.O.W.L.)!

It's great to hear that it ties in with the newly established Big Finish continuity.

Ronnie Corbett

Thu, 31 Mar 2016 12:01:48 +0000

Comedian Ronnie Corbett has died. Best known for his sketch show The Two Ronnies (alongside another comedy great, Ronnie Barker) Corbett appeared in a very special instalment of The Sarah Jane Adventures back in 2009, when he guest starred in the series' Comic Relief special From Raxacoricofallapatorius With Love. He was 85.

SARAH JANE.tv wishes to extend its sympathies towards Ronnie's friends and family.

BBC News has published tributes here, as well as a look back on some of his best jokes.

March 2016 - Interviews & Signings

Tue, 22 Mar 2016 21:48:40 +0000

Elisabeth Sladen's daughter Sadie is interviewed in the latest issue of Starburst. The independent science-fiction and fantasy magazine previews her novel, Moon Blink. It also discusses her transition from actress to writer, and hints of Sadie's future in script writing. You can pick up a copy now, in Starburst magazine issue 423.

Meanwhile, if you're a reader from Newcastle, UK - good news! There's a signing of the new Fourth Doctor comic book at your Forbidden Planet store, this coming Saturday (26th). Published by Titan Comics, and out this Wednesday, the story of the book goes as follows:

The story takes place in Victorian England, that mysterious era of chamber pots and pocket watches. There is an unknown woman who is in charge of a secret army in an institution for the blind. There are Scryclops roaming the streets, and mysterious, timeless screams rip through the air. The Fourth Doctor and Sarah Jane Smith arrive on the scene to investigate the Gaze of the Medusa.

It's written by Gordon Rennie and Emma Beeby (both 2000AD veterans) who will be at Saturday's signing.

Also coming soon - on April 5th, to be precise - is the next chapter of Hachette's Doctor Who: The Complete History to feature any of Sarah Jane Smith's stories. Issue 16/volume 20 focuses on Planet of the Daleks, The Green Death (the final adventure for Death of the Doctor's Jo Grant) and finally, Sarah's debut in The Time Warrior.

The book can be picked up in a fortnight, at £9.99.

So, you want to see Kai Owen strip?

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 12:00:10 +0000

No, don't worry - this isn't one of those dodgy messages you get sent via email. Rather, actor Kai Owen has a new role, acting in the stage adaptation of Simon Beaufoy's The Full Monty. Based on the popular movie, here's a taste of what you might see Kai up to:

Folks, prepare yourself! The play goes on tour from September 21st.

Kai's also attending Bournemouth's Film and Comic Con this Saturday.

You can get a personal message from Kai (as well as Gareth David-Lloyd) through CelebVM, costing £15.

Big Finish's Series 2 Debuts!

Thu, 10 Mar 2016 10:47:57 +0000

Blimey, that was quick.

Only a month on from the conclusion of their first run of Torchwood stories, Big Finish have today released part one of their second.

The Victorian Age features Captain Jack, and Queen Victoria - the founder of Torchwood, as well you might remember from the Doctor Who episode 'Tooth & Claw':

I'm hearing that we'll be getting an announcement soon enough about full cast audio plays (which may suggest a new TV series isn't on the cards) - so watch this space! In the meantime, head over to Big Finish to buy this latest release.

Fans clamour for show's return

Thu, 10 Mar 2016 00:17:44 +0000

The Radio Times recently asked readers to vote whether they would like to see Torchwood return to TV, or not. An impressive 97% of those polled stated a desire to see it back - and they're not alone.

John Barrowman has been vlogging from his own bedroom, as he works his way through a re-watch of the show's first season. He's clearly loving every minute of it, but regrets that the show ended when it, feeling it had plenty more life left in it.

Let's not pretend that Miracle Day was anything other a misfire, and as great as Big Finish are it's just not the same on audio. So come on BBC/BBC America/Netflix and/or Amazon. Give us fans a break - and bring old Jack back for more!

John says in one of his videos ". . . I’m going to watch episode one — I’m going back and I’m watching Torchwood. And there’s a reason why [wink] which I’ll tell ya when I can."

So, there's some hope at least.

[Or Captain Jack is in Doctor Who season 10, maybe even Class...]

Add in Eve Myles' comments recently that she's quitting the role of Torchwood... Could discussions have taken place regarding the future of the show, that involve John but didn't involve Eve? (Hence Eve's unexpected social media outburst) I guess we'll find out soon enough.

***

In news we missed, John Barrowman is now writing a comic based off of his Arrow series, Titled 'The Dark Archer' it's available now from digital comic stores.

Woodies Round-Up: One Rule

Thu, 10 Mar 2016 00:15:05 +0000

We're up to One Rule (the fourth release in Big Finish's Torchwood series) in our catch-up run down of external reviews:

Doctor Who TV ("one of those stories you can listen to all day and never grow bored.")
Red Rocket Rising ("Tracy-Ann Oberman’s performance is to be enjoyed...and worth at least two listens!")
Doctor Who Watch ("Despite the fact that it’s been a decade since her appearance in Series 2, [Tracy-Ann Oberman] plays the character so perfectly that it feels like no time has passed at all.")
Cult Box ("As well as being exciting, ‘One Rule’ is damn funny too")
Warped Factor ("I had trouble getting through this audio story, not because it doesn’t flow – it absolutely does – but because I was laughing so hard.")
Planet Mondas ("A rough night in a rough part of a beautiful City but a diamond performance from all involved and a polished script")
Blogtor Who ("This one is a proper treat and the tale is a real hoot, except when it isn’t.")
Sci-Fi Pulse ("Throughout, Oberman ate the scenery with all the condiments…obviously.")
Enigmania ("It allows for a lot of cool, funny and sometimes dark scenes that is just the sort of thing Torchwood fans loved watching on TV.")
Third Eye Cinema ("It’s not only atmospheric, well written and well acted, but it’s a hell of a lot of fun.")
The Grawlix Podcast ("I found myself thinking… “Yeah. I would listen to a Yvonne Harman series.”)
Starburst Magazine ("6/10: We found this hour of Torchwood to be pretty forgettable. Chuck it in the Rift, we say.")
Karl Bate ("One criticism, or maybe a commercial win, is it left me wanting more.")
Outpost Skaro ("May ultimately end up being more divisive than previous episodes")

From Youtube:

If you've listened to One Rule, let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. Alternatively, provide a link to your own site.

On Record

Wed, 09 Mar 2016 12:51:22 +0000

Just in time for Record Store Day on April 16th, the classic Doctor Who adventure Genesis of the Daleks is being re-released on vinyl.

Transmitted on television in 1975, this classic story featured Elisabeth Sladen across all six episodes. The soundtrack went on to be released, abridged but with a Tom Baker narration filling in any gaps in story. This original record was made available in 1978 by BBC Records and Tapes - and was subsequently released onto MP3 in the early 2000s.

This new edition is brought to us by Demon Records, and its pressed on blue vinyl. There's no hint at the price - you'll just have to get yourself down to your nearest record store in April, and hope really really hard that they have it... and cheap!

Seconds

Wed, 09 Mar 2016 10:01:05 +0000

Big Finish has been busy, producing a second run of Torchwood adventures that they start to release this month. Here's everything that has been announced so far...

Release 2.1

First up, out any day now is The Victorian Age - written by newcomer AK Benedict. This features John Barrowman as Captain Jack Harkness, in the heart of 1890's London, as Torchwood founder Queen Victoria comes for an inspection of the Institute...

(Nice mutton chops, John)

You can listen to the trailer here.

Release 2.2

Next is Zone 10. This release features the long awaited return of Naoko Mori as Toshiko Sato, and features the KVI; Russia's answer to the Torchwood Institute! It's written by David Llewellyn and is available to buy/download from April.

You can listen to the trailer here.

Release 2.3

Calling all PC Andy fans! He's back in May, for an adventure called Ghost Mission. The synopsis is pretty bare at the moment, and just reads "Sergeant Andy meets Norton Folgate - a Torchwood agent with his own agenda..." It's not clear if this is set after the life of the TV series/some of the first series audio adventures. Anyhoo, it's written by James Goss.

No cover or trailer have been released as of yet.

Release 2.4

Guy Adams has written Moving Targets, an adventure featuring Indira Varma as Suzie Costello, whereby Cardiff just... stops. It's up to Suzie to get to the bottom of the mystery. Presumably this takes place prior to the start of the show. This is released in June.

No trailer yet, folks.

Release 2.5 & 2.6

Nothing is known about the final two releases in the series - although one of them is likely to feature John Barrowman. Though, maybe not Eve Myles...

All releases are directed by the very talented Scott Handcock. They can be purchased direct from Big Finish - on CD for £9.99 (this also includes a free downloaded copy) or digitally for £7.99. Of course, they are also available on the high street, too. But don't buy that way - Big Finish are ace, so support them by buying on their site!

Woodies Round-Up: Forgotten Lives

Tue, 08 Mar 2016 21:41:07 +0000

In an attempt to catch back up, here's a run down of external reviews for Big Finish's third Torchwood release - Forgotten Lives, featuring Eve Myles and Kai Owen.

Red Rocket Rising ("a wonderful story")
Cultbox (Awarded 4/5 - "makes good use of a small cast and it is great to hear some more mature voices")
Warped Factor ("a story that you’ll struggle to forget)
Doctor Who Watch ("another fantastic example from Big Finish of exactly what Torchwood does best")
Planet Mondas ("Definitely not one to forget. 9/10.")
Outpost Skaro ("If there’s any niggles, there is a bit of accent drift in the southerly direction in a couple of cases")
Blogtor Who ("The sound effects... were so convincing that I was reaching for my big coat and my sou’wester.")
Sci-Fi Pulse ("Eve Myles and Kai Owen demonstrated why they are one of the most underrated double acts in science fiction.")
Third Eye Cinema ("an oft quite witty script from Emma Reeves.")

From Youtube:

Tell us what you thought of the release in the comments section below.

Running Late

Tue, 08 Mar 2016 15:30:26 +0000

There's a delay on the first issue of Titan's Doctor Who Fourth Doctor comic. Originally scheduled to come out March 1st, it looks like it won't be out this week either. Such delays have happened before, with the Ninth Doctor series in 2015.

We don't have a date for issue 1, but here's the complete gallery of covers available for the launch issue. Many thanks to Titan Comics for these.

Cover A, by Alice X Zhang

Cover B, a photo variant (edited by ??)

Cover C, by Brian Williamson

Cover D, by Jay Gunn

Cover E, by Matt Baxter

Cover F, blank cover

Many fans like the blank covers, as it allows them to take it to the series' artist, and have them draw a unique image on their edition.

The blank cover does have underneath it the Alice X Zhang image, also.

Best guess, issue one will hit stores on March 16th.

Meanwhile, Comic Book Resources have an exclusive look at the second issue covers on their site. That issue is slated for release March 30th; but this will likely slip back to some point in April/May.

Myles to go?

Tue, 08 Mar 2016 11:17:34 +0000

Has Eve Myles really quit playing the role of Gwen Cooper?

Reports last month suggested she had, after the actress posted a number of tweets stating as much.

Since then Eve has remained pretty quiet about the whole thing. It leaves me to wonder, however, exactly what she means. Has she ended her association with Torchwood completely (i.e. no more TV, Big Finish, etc.) - or is she merely suggesting that, five years on from her last appearance in Miracle Day, Eve no longer wants to play the role of Eve in a live-action capacity, but is willing to continue with the Big Finsh audios?

At the moment, it looks like the first option is more likely, which is a shame. Big Finish has a great reputation amongst its actors - Hell, they even managed to lure Tom Baker back! If Eve *has* quit them (which we don't know for certain)... did something happen behind the scenes?

***

I'm aware we've been away for a while. I'll slowly start to catch up on news throughout the rest of this week.

Moon Blink

Mon, 07 Mar 2016 19:21:45 +0000

The cover to Sadie Miller's Moon Blink novel has been revealed:

Based on the early career of Colonel Lethbridge-Stewart and Anne Travers, Moon Blink is "a game of cat and mouse", set during the first moonwalk in July 1969.

You can read all about it here, and on Sadie's twitter page.

Meanwhile, three universes are about to meet - as our very own Finn Jones (Jo Jones' grandson in SJA's Death of the Doctor) has been cast as the lead in the Marvel Cinematic Universes' Iron Fist. Of course, Finn also had a memorable turn in HBO's Games of Thrones a couple of years back. His agent is to be commended for landing him some great roles!

Finally, see where Sarah Jane ranks amongst the best and worst of the Whoniverse's mothers.

***

I know posts are infrequent now - so check out our sister blog COAL HILL.tv