Doctor Who (magazine)

Doctor Who (magazine). It is the world's longest-running magazine based on a television series, providing continuous coverage of the BBC science fiction programme Doctor Who since 1979. Published initially by Marvel UK and later by Panini Comics, the magazine offers news, interviews, behind-the-scenes features, and original comic strips. It serves as an essential resource for fans, chronicling the show's history from the Fourth Doctor era through its 2005 revival and beyond.

History and publication

The magazine launched on 17 October 1979 as Doctor Who Weekly under the editorship of Dez Skinn at Marvel UK. It transitioned to a monthly format in September 1980, becoming Doctor Who Monthly, before adopting its current title in 1985. Following the television series' hiatus in 1989, the magazine continued publication, covering the Virgin New Adventures novels and the 1996 television movie. Key moments in its history include a special issue celebrating the show's 20th anniversary in 1983 and its continued support during the programme's revival under showrunner Russell T Davies in 2005. Ownership passed to Panini Comics in 1995, which has published it since, maintaining its status through the eras of subsequent showrunners like Steven Moffat and Chris Chibnall.

Content and features

Each issue typically includes news about the television series, in-depth interviews with cast members such as David Tennant and Jodie Whittaker, and production teams including composers like Murray Gold. A cornerstone of the magazine is its ongoing comic strip featuring original adventures for The Doctor, illustrated by artists like John Ridgway and written by figures such as Scott Gray. Regular features have included The Time Team, where writers re-watch classic serials, and Gallifrey Guardian, a news section. The magazine also publishes extensive episode guides, retrospectives on stories like Genesis of the Daleks, and features on spin-off media like Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures.

Editors and contributors

The magazine has been guided by several notable editors, including Dez Skinn at its inception, Gary Gillatt during the 1990s wilderness years, and Tom Spilsbury who oversaw much of the modern era. Long-serving contributing writers and columnists have included Gary Russell, Andrew Pixley, and Jonathan Morris. The comic strip has featured work from renowned Doctor Who novelists like Paul Cornell and artists including Mike Collins. Current and former production staff from the television series, such as Nicholas Briggs and Terrance Dicks, have also been frequent contributors, providing unique insights into the show's creation.

Spin-offs and related publications

The magazine has spawned several special editions and one-off publications, including Doctor Who Classic Comics, which reprints vintage comic strips. Under the Panini Comics banner, it has produced numerous graphic novel collections of its comic serials. Related annuals and holiday specials are frequently published. The magazine's brand has also extended to bookazines focusing on specific eras, like the Fifth Doctor or monsters such as the Cybermen, and has ties to reference works like Doctor Who: The Complete History. Its content has often dovetailed with other BBC licensed products and Big Finish Productions audio dramas.

Reception and legacy

The magazine has received critical acclaim, winning the Eagle Award for "Favourite British Comic" in 1981. It is credited with sustaining fan interest during the programme's absence from television between 1989 and 2005. Its archival features and interviews are considered vital historical records by researchers and institutions like the British Film Institute. The magazine has influenced other media tie-in publications and set a high standard for licensed periodicals. Its longevity and consistent quality have cemented its reputation as an indispensable part of the wider Doctor Who culture, engaging multiple generations of fans across the United Kingdom and internationally.

Category:Doctor Who magazines Category:1979 establishments in the United Kingdom Category:Monthly magazines published in the United Kingdom