The Doctor Who screenwriterRussell T Davieshas said he has no time for “online warriors” who claim the show is too woke.Speaking toBBCRadio 2, the Welsh writer – who was also behind the hit series Queer As Folk and It’s a Sin – said: “What you might call diversity, I just call an open door.”The sci-fi series returned to the BBC last week with Ncuti Gatwa again playing the Doctor and Varada Sethu joining him as his companion. It marks the first time the two leads have both been played by minority ethnic actors.Jodie Whittaker became the first female Doctor in 2017 under the previous head writer, Chris Chibnall, and Gatwa became the first black actor to play the TV lead of Time Lord in 2023.“Someone always brings up matters of diversity,” Davies said on the Radio 2 programme Doctor Who: 20 Secrets from 20 Years. “And there are online warriors accusing us of diversity and wokeness and involving messages and issues.“And I have no time for this. I don’t have a second to bear [it]. Because what you might call diversity, I just call an open door.”When asked whether he wrote the show’s diverse themes consciously, he said: “I don’t even know if it’s conscious. That’s life, and I think it’s the only way to write.”He said it would be harder to write scripts with “a narrow window” of references. “Why limit yourself? Why breathe in the exhaust fumes? Why be toxic?” he said. “Come over here where the life and light and air and sound is.”Sethu, who plays the Doctor’s new companion Belinda Chandra, addressed comments about the show’s perceived “wokeness” in an interview with the Radio Times.“I just think we’re doing the right thing if we’re getting comments like that,” she said. “Woke just means inclusive, progressive, and that you care about people. And as far as I know, the core of Doctor Who is kindness, love and doing the right thing.”skip past newsletter promotionSign up toThe Long WaveFree weekly newsletterNesrine Malik and Jason Okundaye deliver your weekly dose of Black life and culture from around the worldEnter your email addressSign upPrivacy Notice:Newsletters may contain info about charities, online ads, and content funded by outside parties. For more information see ourPrivacy Policy. We use Google reCaptcha to protect our website and the GooglePrivacy PolicyandTerms of Serviceapply.after newsletter promotionGatwa told the Radio Times that the two actors taking the lead roles indicated “progress, in terms of how we reflect the societies that we live in”.Rumours have surrounded the show for several weeks, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that Gatwa may leave and the BBC may axe Doctor Who. The BBC has said only that any decision on a new series would be made after the current one ends.
‘Why be toxic?’: Russell T Davies hits back at claims Doctor Who too woke
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Russell T Davies Defends Doctor Who Against Claims of Excessive Wokeness"
The Guardian
6.3
TruthLens AI Summary
Russell T Davies, the screenwriter for the long-running sci-fi series Doctor Who, has responded to criticisms from online commentators who label the show as excessively 'woke.' In a recent interview with BBC Radio 2, Davies expressed his disdain for what he termed 'online warriors' who attack the series for its commitment to diversity. He emphasized that what critics refer to as diversity is simply an 'open door' to storytelling, reflecting a broader spectrum of human experiences. This latest season of Doctor Who features Ncuti Gatwa in the lead role as the Doctor, marking a significant milestone as he becomes the first Black actor to portray the character. Additionally, Varada Sethu joins him as the new companion, highlighting the show's commitment to representation with both leads being from minority ethnic backgrounds. Davies noted that discussions about diversity often surface, but he does not have the time to engage with negativity surrounding these themes. He believes that limiting the narrative scope would hinder creativity and authenticity in writing, questioning the rationale behind constraining perspectives in storytelling.
In the same interview, Sethu addressed the backlash regarding the show's perceived wokeness, asserting that the focus on inclusivity and progressiveness aligns with the core values of Doctor Who, which center around kindness and compassion. She stated that receiving criticism for being inclusive indicates that the show is on the right path. Gatwa echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the representation of two minority ethnic actors in lead roles signifies progress in how contemporary societies are portrayed in media. While there have been rumors about potential changes to the show's future, including speculation about Gatwa's departure and the possibility of the BBC discontinuing the series, the network has confirmed that decisions regarding a new series will only be made after the current season concludes. This ongoing dialogue around diversity, representation, and the essence of storytelling continues to shape the public's perception of Doctor Who amidst evolving societal norms.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The recent comments by Russell T Davies regarding the backlash against "Doctor Who" being labeled as "too woke" reflect a broader cultural conversation about diversity and representation in media. This article highlights Davies' dismissive stance towards critics, framing their concerns as outdated and unproductive.
Cultural Context and Public Sentiment
Davies’ remarks come at a time when discussions surrounding diversity in entertainment have intensified. By referring to diversity as "an open door," he positions inclusivity as a natural and necessary aspect of storytelling. This perspective seeks to normalize diversity in media, countering the narrative that it is a controversial or divisive topic. The comments from Sethu, the new companion, further reinforce this notion by equating "wokeness" with kindness and progressiveness, which aligns with the core themes of "Doctor Who."
Potential Underlying Agendas
The article may aim to bolster support for a more inclusive representation in media by portraying critics as regressive. This approach seeks to validate the creative choices of the show's producers and writers while simultaneously discrediting dissenting opinions. The framing of Davies as a champion of openness could also be a strategic move to position the show positively among its audience, particularly those who value progressive narratives.
Implications for Society and Media
The dialogue around "Doctor Who" reflects larger societal trends regarding representation and inclusivity. The article might be attempting to shape public perception by normalizing discussions of diversity as integral rather than as a side issue. The response to these comments could influence how other producers approach diversity in their projects, potentially leading to increased representation across various platforms.
Connection to Broader Issues
The article's emphasis on diversity may resonate with ongoing discussions in various sectors, including politics and social movements advocating for equal rights. By aligning "Doctor Who" with these themes, it solidifies the show's relevance in contemporary cultural debates. This connection could also position the series as a progressive leader within the entertainment industry, encouraging other shows to follow suit.
Potential Economic and Market Impact
While this article does not directly address stocks or markets, the success of "Doctor Who" could influence related entertainment ventures. Shows that embrace diversity might see increased viewership and sponsorship, reflecting changing audience preferences. This trend could affect the financial performance of networks and streaming platforms that prioritize inclusive programming.
Community Support Dynamics
Davies’ and Sethu’s comments likely resonate more with progressive communities that advocate for inclusion and representation in media. This demographic may feel empowered by the show's direction, while critics of "wokeness" may feel alienated, underscoring the cultural divides present in society today.
Manipulative Elements
The language used in the article can be seen as an attempt to frame dissenters as "toxic" or out of touch, which can be perceived as a form of manipulation. By invoking strong imagery, such as "breathing in the exhaust fumes," the article appeals to emotional responses, potentially swaying public opinion. The reliability of the article rests on its presentation of Davies’ and Sethu's views, which, while representative of their perspectives, may not encompass the full spectrum of opinions on the topic. The framing seeks to paint a positive picture of diversity while dismissing criticism, which could skew readers' understanding of the broader conversation surrounding representation in media.