John Nathan-Turner

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Lore & Background

Nathan-Turner took charge of Season 18 with a 'new broom' approach, determined to end what he viewed as a period where the show had become too comedic and was parodying science fiction rather than telling serious stories. He immediately replaced Dudley Simpson, the long-time composer, with electronic composers like Peter Howell, who also arranged a new theme music sequence. Opening titles were revamped to feature a fresh photograph of Tom Baker, and a new closing credit sequence was introduced. While he lacked writing experience, leaving story choices largely to script editor Christopher H. Bidmead, Nathan-Turner insisted on reinstituting classic villains like the Master, Cybermen, Daleks, and Davros to generate publicity. He frequently cast high-profile actors from light entertainment as guest stars, a strategy that drew mixed reactions but kept the series in the public eye.

In Their Own Story

His first season saw the departure of Tom Baker and Lalla Ward, with Nathan-Turner casting Peter Davison as the Fifth Doctor after working with him on All Creatures Great and Small. By Season 20, he orchestrated a year-long celebration featuring returns of Omega, the Mara, and Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart. In 1985, following BBC controller Michael Grade's public criticism of the series as 'tired' and 'violent', an 18-month hiatus was enforced. Upon its return in 1986 with a shortened season featuring Colin Baker, tensions mounted. The era concluded with Nathan-Turner casting Sylvester McCoy as the Seventh Doctor before the show's eventual cancellation in 1989. During this time, he also produced annual Christmas pantomimes at Tunbridge Wells Theatre starring the incumbent Doctors.

Reader's Guide

Fans and critics often note Nathan-Turner's reluctance to hire directors or writers from previous eras, with rare exceptions including Pennant Roberts (director) and Robert Holmes (writer). His tenure coincided with a massive growth in the US fan base via PBS broadcasts, making him a familiar face at fundraising drives. He authored two books: Doctor Who: The TARDIS Inside Out (1985) and Doctor Who: The Companions (1986). Casting decisions were sometimes controversial; companion Tegan Jovanka was introduced to court Australian viewers, while Peri Brown was added to appeal to the American market—a move Peter Davison cited as a reason for his departure. Despite criticism regarding 'stunt casting' and excessive violence in Colin Baker's 1985 season, Nathan-Turner maintained that bringing back popular monsters was essential for the show's survival.

Did You Know?

• He adopted the double-barrelled name 'John Nathan-Turner' to distinguish himself from British actor John Turner.
• His first Doctor Who work was as a floor crew member on The Space Pirates in 1969 at Lime Grove Studios.
• He produced annual Christmas pantomimes at Tunbridge Wells Theatre featuring the current Doctor and cast members starting in December 1982.
• Peter Davison left the show partly because he disagreed with Nathan-Turner's decision to introduce an American companion solely to appeal to US viewers.
• He wrote two books about the programme: The TARDIS Inside Out (1985) and The Companions (1986).