The Oldest Doctors Who: Age Records of the Gallifreyan Numen

Introduction

The television series Doctor Who has captivated audiences for decades, featuring its iconic protagonist, The Doctor, portrayed by a lineage of talented actors. Among these actors, certain names stand out, particularly those who were the oldest to take on the role. In this article, we'll delve into the age records of the oldest Doctors Who, with special focus on William Hartnell as the oldest main-line actor.

A Historical Look at the Oldest Doctors

The character of The Doctor is a time-traveling alien from the planet Gallifrey, known for his wit, intelligence, and unwavering determination to do what is right. The role has been portrayed by many actors, and among them, some have stood out due to their advanced age when they took on the role.

Colin Baker: The Longest-Richmond Years

Colin Baker took on the role of The War Doctor in the 9th-season story "The Name of The Doctor," which aired in 2013. This incarnation was his first, and he assumed the role at the age of 73 years old. The War Doctor, despite being a relatively minor character in the series, holds a significant place in Doctor Who lore, as he set the stage for the 50th anniversary special.

William Hartnell: The First and Oldest

William Hartnell was the first actor to portray The Doctor, and he did so with remarkable vigor and charisma. Hartnell took on the role at the age of 55 years and 9 months, a much younger age than his eventual successor. His performance earned him a special place in the hearts of Doctor Who enthusiasts. Hartnell played the role from 1963 to 1966, making him the oldest to date in the main-line Doctors.

Eric Idle and Peter Capaldi: The Late Bloomers

Eric Idle joined the Doctor Who revival in the late 1970s as a guest actor, but he did not take on the role of the character in his final appearance. Peter Capaldi, on the other hand, played the 12th and one of the final Doctors, taking over from Matt Smith in 2013. He was 58 years old when he assumed the role, making him the oldest main-line actor to be actively playing The Doctor.

Perspectives and Legacy

The age of an actor taking on the role of The Doctor is not only a matter of physical age but also a reflection of their experience and the timeless wisdom that comes with it. Colin Baker's portrayal of The War Doctor at 73 was a testament to the enduring power of the character and the enduring popularity of the series.

William Hartnell's 55 years and 9 months made him the first and, until the present day, the oldest actor to play the role in the main-line Doctors. He set a standard for embodying The Doctor that has been emulated by many actors since his time. This legacy underscores the cultural significance of Doctor Who and the enduring appeal of the character.

Conclusion

The age of an actor taking on the role of The Doctor in Doctor Who is a fascinating aspect of the show's rich history. From the first incarnation of The Doctor, William Hartnell, to the more recent portrayal by Peter Capaldi, the varying ages of the actors have added depth and character to the beloved series. As the show continues to evolve, the question of who will become the next oldest actor to play the role remains an intriguing one.

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