Sixth Doctor

Sixth Doctor is an incarnation of the Doctor, the protagonist of the BBC science fiction television series Doctor Who. Portrayed by Colin Baker, this incarnation followed the Fifth Doctor and debuted at the end of the serial The Caves of Androzani. Known for his flamboyant costume and brash, argumentative personality, his tenure was marked by a turbulent production period for the series and initially mixed critical reception.

Fictional character biography

Following a regeneration triggered by spectrox toxaemia on Androzani Minor, this new incarnation initially suffered from post-regenerative instability, leading to a violent confrontation with his companion Peri Brown. His early travels involved thwarting schemes by adversaries like the Celestial Toymaker and a rogue Time Lord known as the Valeyard. Key adventures included confronting the Cybermen on Telos, battling the Sontarans in Sevastopol, and encountering the Rani on Lakertya. His era concluded with his trial for interference, orchestrated by the High Council of Time Lords, which culminated in another forced regeneration aboard the TARDIS.

Appearances

The primary television stories spanned from the 1984 season finale through the entirety of Season 22 and the linked serials of Season 23, known collectively as The Trial of a Time Lord. Key serials include Attack of the Cybermen, Vengeance on Varos, and The Two Doctors. Following the original series, the character has been extensively explored in expanded universe media, including audio dramas by Big Finish Productions, where he is often paired with companions like Evelyn Smythe and Flip Jackson. He also appears in numerous Virgin New Adventures and BBC Books novels, as well as comic strips in Doctor Who Magazine.

Personality and traits

This incarnation was notably arrogant, egotistical, and prone to bombastic outbursts, a stark contrast to his more amiable predecessor. He possessed a deep, often hidden, sense of moral justice and intellectual brilliance, but his abrasive exterior frequently alienated allies. His signature costume was a vividly colored, mismatched coat described as a "catastrophe" of clashing tartan, reflecting his chaotic nature. Despite his volatility, he demonstrated profound loyalty, particularly to Peri Brown and later Melanie Bush, and a fierce commitment to opposing cosmic evils like the Daleks and the Master.

Reception

Initial critical and audience reaction was largely negative, with criticism focused on the perceived unlikeability of the character and the increased violence in stories like The Twin Dilemma. The era coincided with a difficult period for the series, including an 18-month hiatus and scheduling controversies. Over time, reassessment through audio dramas and a broader appreciation of the era's ambition has led to a more favorable view. Performances in stories such as The Holy Terror and Jubilee are now highly regarded, with many fans praising the depth added to the character in subsequent media.

Cultural impact and legacy

Despite a short and contentious original broadcast run, this incarnation has secured a significant cult following. The audacious costume remains one of the most iconic and parodied in the series' history. The work of Big Finish Productions is widely credited with rehabilitating the character's reputation, allowing for nuanced storytelling that explored his complexities. The era is also noted for its bold, often satirical storytelling in serials like Vengeance on Varos, which critiqued media violence. This Doctor's journey from a divisive figure to a beloved part of the Whoniverse demonstrates the enduring and evolving nature of the franchise's mythology. Category:Doctor Who characters Category:Fictional scientists Category:Time Lords