Honoring 20 Years of LGBTQ+ Representation in Doctor Who

It's hard to believe, but the beloved "New Who" reboot of the classic sci-fi show, Doctor Who, first premiered two decades ago. On this day, we celebrate the vibrant LGBTQ+ moments that have made the series a staple for queer fans worldwide.

The revival, launched in 2005 by Russell T Davies, creator of the groundbreaking series Queer as Folk, introduced a diverse range of queer characters and themes. This legacy continues with the upcoming season 15 on Disney+, starring queer actor Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor. As fans eagerly await this new chapter, let's look back at some of the most memorable LGBTQ+ moments in Doctor Who history.

Donna Noble: A Trans Ally for the Ages

In the much-anticipated 60th anniversary special, “The Star Beast”, viewers were thrilled by the return of David Tennant and Catherine Tate as the Doctor and Donna Noble. The episode introduced Donna's daughter, Rose, a trans character who quickly became a fan favorite. In a powerful scene, Donna fiercely defends Rose against transphobic bullies, declaring, "I would burn down the world for you, darling." This moment of solidarity and love resonated deeply with fans worldwide.

The Groundbreaking Kiss of Captain Jack Harkness

Back in 2005, Captain Jack Harkness, portrayed by John Barrowman, made waves as one of the first openly queer characters on mainstream family television. In the season one finale, “The Parting of the Ways”, Captain Jack shares a bold kiss with both the Doctor and Rose, marking a significant moment in LGBTQ+ representation. This character's impact extended beyond Doctor Who, as Captain Jack headlined the spin-off series Torchwood, exploring his profound romance with Ianto Jones.

Alice and May Cassini: The First Lesbian Duo

Season three's "Gridlock" introduced viewers to Alice and May Cassini, who proudly assert their marriage when mistaken for sisters. This iconic moment was a watershed for many young viewers, providing a rare glimpse of an elder sapphic relationship on screen. The Cassinis joined numerous other LGBTQ+ characters who have graced the Doctor Who universe, contributing to its rich and diverse tapestry.

The Love Story of Madam Vastra and Jenny

Throughout Steven Moffat’s tenure as showrunner, the dynamic duo of Silurian Madam Vastra and her human partner Jenny captivated audiences. Their relationship, punctuated by heartfelt moments and a life-saving kiss, became a beacon of lesbian representation. Their storylines in episodes like "Deep Breath" showcased their undying love and commitment to each other, even in the face of danger.

Bill Potts and Heather: Defying the "Bury Your Gays" Trope

Bill Potts, the first openly gay companion, captured hearts with her storyline in season 10. Her romance with Heather took an unexpected turn when Heather transformed into sentient oil. In the finale, "The Doctor Falls", Heather returns to rescue Bill, offering a happy ending that defies the tragic "bury your gays" trope, allowing them to explore the universe together.

The Master: An Iconic Queer Character

The Master, a recurring antagonist, has long been celebrated as a camp icon. The character’s genderfluid transformations, from John Simm to Michelle Gomez's sensational Missy, and later Sacha Dhawan, have cemented the Master as a beloved figure in queer pop culture. Dhawan’s portrayal, especially his flamboyant dance to "Ra Ra Rasputin," captivated audiences and showcased the character’s flamboyant spirit.

Jinkx Monsoon's Memorable Role as Maestro

In “The Devil’s Chord”, Jinkx Monsoon dazzled as the villainous Maestro, making a striking entrance from inside a piano. In a defining moment, Maestro corrects a bystander’s use of incorrect pronouns, offering a powerful statement of identity and inclusion. Jinkx’s performance brought a unique and exhilarating energy to the series.

Ncuti Gatwa's Historic Moment with Jonathan Groff

In a landmark episode, Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor shares a passionate kiss with Jonathan Groff’s character, Rogue, heralding the Doctor's first full gay romance. Their chemistry, set against the backdrop of a Regency-era ball, left fans excited for the new direction Doctor Who is taking under Russell T Davies' leadership.

Luke Smith's Journey to Love

While not from Doctor Who directly, Luke Smith from The Sarah Jane Adventures touched hearts with his coming out story. Although the series ended prematurely, fans were given closure in the 2020 short "Farewell, Sarah Jane," where Luke reflects on his relationship with Sanjay. This touching portrayal of queer love highlighted the enduring impact the Doctor Who universe has had on its audience.

As Doctor Who continues to evolve, its commitment to representing the LGBTQ+ community remains stronger than ever. Here's to another 20 years of groundbreaking queer moments!