The showrunner and stars of Doctor Who have forcefully responded to ongoing criticisms that the long-running BBC sci-fi series has become “too woke,” insisting that the show’s evolution simply reflects its foundational message of kindness, inclusivity, and progress.
Recent seasons of Doctor Who have faced backlash from some viewers who argue that the show’s storylines and casting choices are driven by a so-called “woke agenda.” These criticisms intensified with history-making moves such as casting Jodie Whittaker as the first female Doctor in 2017, and Ncuti Gatwa as the first Black Time Lord in 2023. Episodes have also included references to gender identity and political issues, further fueling debate among fans and critics alike.
Varada Sethu, who plays the Doctor’s new companion Belinda Chandra, addressed these concerns directly in a recent interview. She argued that being labeled “woke” is simply a sign that the show is on the right track, stating, “Woke just means inclusive, progressive, and that you care about people. And, as far as I know, the core of Doctor Who is kindness, love and doing the right thing.” Sethu and Gatwa’s pairing marks the first time two people of color will pilot the TARDIS together, a milestone she says reflects the show’s ongoing commitment to representation and empathy.
Despite the vocal backlash—some of which has included negative reactions to storylines involving gender politics and contemporary social issues—the BBC has stood by its creative direction. The corporation has dismissed rumors that the show faces cancellation due to these controversies, reaffirming that Doctor Who is not being shelved and rejecting claims that social progressiveness is a threat to its future.
The BBC and the Doctor Who team maintain that the series’ willingness to embrace diversity and address modern themes is not about pushing an agenda, but about staying true to the show’s heart. As Sethu put it, “If we’re getting comments like that, we’re doing the right thing.” The show’s leadership and cast continue to emphasize that Doctor Who’s legacy is built on the ideals of compassion, acceptance, and standing up for what is right—a message they believe is more relevant than ever.