Day 386: The Ark in Space Part 1

The series has now undergone a rebirth. We have a new script editor, a new producer, a new companion and a new Doctor. We'll look at each of these in due course, but for the moment let's have a look at our new companion, Dr Harry Sullivan. He's a character from an earlier age, not necessarily in time (he comes from aroundabouts the modern day) but in behaviour. He acts as a gentleman (especially around women), is quietly perplexed by everything that is happening around him and is able to act as the straight man. This makes him work well with Tom Baker as the Doctor, who is significantly more loopy. It's a Doctor/companion relationship that feels brand new and exciting, although it should be noted that it's a relationship that we've seen since the early days of the programme with William Hartnell and Ian Chesterton. However, the fact that we have a new production team and a new approach to the series manages to make this all feel fresh, and ensures that we shall be able to look forward to the adventures of the Doctor, Sarah Jane, and Harry for the next little while.