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But this slice of horror and psychological terror is far from being “Christmassy”. Writer Russell T Davies was clever enough to make this a fun, blockbuster hour for the show ensuring that the Doctor Who Christmas Special was to become a staple of the day for years to come. Though he was really only present during the closing half hour, Tennant steals the show with his immediate charm and likability, taking Doctor Who into a new era of popularity.
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This was the debut outing for David Tennant having regenerated from Christopher Eccleston in the previous ep. The very first Doctor Who Christmas Special! (Note for fans who suggest the 1965 installment ‘The Feast Of Steven’ was the first – although this was broadcast on Christmas Day, it was not a special episode.) Tate proved to be such a hit that the actress was asked back and Donna would travel with the Gallifreyan once more in 2008’s outstanding Season Four. The episode was an explosion of joy, fun and action. Donna Noble’s brash and no-nonsense approach to TARDIS traveller was just what the Tenth Doctor needed after losing his GF Rose to a parallel world. Kicking off the tradition of having a notable guest star in the Christmas Special, UK comedy legend Catherine Tate became companion for a night opposite David Tennant. It was the first festive outing for Matt Smith as the Eleventh Doctor and was gifted a glorious and Christmas-tastic setting, an impeccable co-star (Harry Potter’s Michael Gambon) and a sumptuous score and song from composer Murray Gold. ‘A Christmas Carol’ will never be bettered than when in Muppet form but the timey-wimey tale is perfect for the Time Lord. Given that Dickens actually starred in Doctor Who (well, in the personage of actor Simon Callow at least), it’s no surprise that one of the writer’s finest pieces of work received an homage. This hugely emotional story wound up the Tenth Doctor era in the most distressing of fashions. For some, it’s still too soon to talk about David Tennant’s finale.