The end of David Tennant’s reign as “Doctor Who” in the hugely popular remake version of the original classic BBC science fiction series is set to come to an end with the BBC Press Office having officially released details of the two part Christmas special that will see him exit the role, to be replaced by Matt Smith in 2011.
First off was the major emphasis placed on the specials in the BBC’s preview of its festive season schedule, noting “Highlights of this year’s offering include David Tennant’s farewell in a two part special of Doctor Who called The End of Time. The Doctor’s oldest enemy – The Master (John Simm) – returns alongside former companion Donna Noble (Catherine Tate) and old favourite Wilf (Bernard Cribbins), as the entire human race faces its last ever Christmas – unless the Doctor can save the day.” More information on the plot of the episodes was revealed in the Network TV Programme Information release for weeks 51 and 52. “It’s the Tenth Doctor’s final journey” states the blurb for Part One, “but his psychotic nemesis the Master has been reborn, on Christmas Eve. With both determined to cheat death, the battle ranges from the wastelands of London to the mysterious Immortality Gate, while the alien Ood warn of an even greater danger approaching, as a terrible shadow falls across the entire Universe.”
Part Two’s plot details included the text “The Doctor faces the end of his life as the Master’s plans hurtle out of control. With the sound of drums growing louder, and an ancient trap closing around the Earth, the Doctor and Wilf must fight alone. But sacrifices must be made, and the deadly prophecy warns “He will knock four times.””
Transmission times have yet to be announced, though Part One is almost certain to be aired on Christmas Day itself.
