Britain’s long-adored favourite TV show Doctor Who will receive it’s first gay companion when the newest series airs on 15 April. Bill Potts, played by Pearl Mackie, is said to reveal her sexuality in the new series’ opening moments but Mackie insists “It shouldn’t be a big deal in the 21st Century. It’s about time isn’t it?”
But Bill will not be the first LGBT character to feature on Doctor Who, as gay and bisexual River Song and Captain Jack featured in the show long before the new companion. However, the role of the companion is classic and has been a career-defining for the multiple actresses who have previously taken on the challenge.
The historical moment for the show was met with open arms, and many fans took to twitter to express their joy:
https://twitter.com/chysalex/status/847839537237823488
Doctor Who is so close – and Bill is gay and im so fricken happy. SO HAPPY.
— Joanna (@Joanna_marie97) March 31, 2017
"Doctor who will have an openly gay companion" and suddenly I fit into my old doctor who shirts
— jenny she/they (@draculasimp) March 31, 2017
The announcement has sparked further curiosity on who will be taking the keys to the Tardis from current Doctor Peter Capaldi after he ends his stint after the upcoming season. With Doctor Who widening its diversity on-screen, many are betting on the next Doctor to be female, with actresses such as Olivia Colman, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and even Tilda Swinton rumoured for the role. The news has been branded historic by many, and actress Mackie is right to argue “representation is important, especially on a mainstream show” inspiring hope for other popular shows to follow in their footsteps.
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