The Doctor's Beard Podcast

Production 6D: "Snakedance" (January 18-26, 1983) - Classic Doctor Who Season 20 Review The Fifth Doctor discovers that Tegan Jovanka has been involuntarily manipulating the TARDIS coordinates, steering them toward the peaceful planet Manusa - homeworld of the Sumaran Empire Federation and the historical site where the malevolent Mara was supposedly destroyed centuries ago. But the snake-like entity was never truly vanquished, and it once again seizes control of Tegan's mind in a terrifying possession, threatening to plunge the unsuspecting civilization of Manusa into chaos and darkness as it prepares for its prophesied return during the ceremony celebrating its ancient defeat. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this chilling sequel to Season 19's "Kinda," they analyze the Fifth Doctor's deepening concern and protectiveness for the traumatized Tegan following her previous Mara possession, celebrate Nyssa's stunning new costume that finally gives Sarah Sutton a more practical outfit, spotlight the television debut of British comedy legend Martin Clunes in his very first professional acting role as the spoiled Lon, and explore the fascinating thematic parallels between "Snakedance" and earlier Doctor Who stories involving mind control and ancient evil. Writer Christopher Bailey returns to expand his Buddhist-influenced mythology with director Fiona Cumming bringing psychological horror to life. The countdown to Doctor Who's monumental 20th anniversary continues as Season 20 follows producer John Nathan-Turner's mandate to bring back classic monsters and villains from the show's illustrious history. The Mara returns as part of the nostalgic callbacks celebrating two decades of time travel adventures! Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content, character analysis, and fan theories. Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis, and special multimedia reviews covering comics, audio dramas, and music. Your support helps us continue our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Snakedance #Season20 #TheMara #TeganJovanka #JanetFielding #Possession #Nyssa #SarahSutton #MartinClunes #ActingDebut #ChristopherBailey #FionaCumming #Kinda #SequelStory #Manusa #SumaranEmpire #DoctorWho1983 #JohnNathanTurner #20thAnniversary #ReturningMonsters #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #BuddhistThemes #PsychologicalHorror #MindControl #AncientEvil #BBC #BritishSciFi #DoctorWhoFandom #CompanionTrauma #ClassicWho #DoctorWhoVillains #DoctorWhoHistory #SciFiTV #DoctorWhoMonsters

Episode Title: "From Carnage to Cleavage" - Planet of Fire Review PLANET OF FIRE (February-March 1984) Writer: Peter Grimwade (his final Doctor Who work) Director: Fiona Cumming (her last story, dating back to The Highlanders) Location: Lanzarote, Canary Islands - chosen after Cumming promoted it with holiday photos! THE SHOPPING LIST EPISODE: Peter Grimwade faces an enormous writing burden with his final Doctor Who script - a literal checklist: Introduce Perry, reintroduce Kamelion (and write him out), fill in Turlough's background, bring back the Master and kill him off, and oh yes, set it all in Lanzarote because we want a holiday! PERI: The accent is terrible, the acting is broad, the costumes are... strategic. But she's a complete 180 from Tegan, which makes her "a refreshing change" in Jim's words. Also: Why does Fiona Cumming, a female director, go along with the obvious cheesecake shots? THE QUESTION: Why was Turlough sent to Earth instead of being on the ship with the others? THE DEATH: The Doctor hesitates as the Master burns in the flames. Both hosts question whether he could've saved him (echoing the Davros dilemma from Resurrection). KAMELION'S END: The prop finally works by having Kamelion transform into Howard (Perry's stepfather) and then the Master. Jim asks the obvious: "Why didn't they just do that all along?" THE PSYCHOLOGICAL WOUND THEORY: Jim theorizes that while previous Doctors showed physical deterioration before regeneration, Davison is being psychologically and mentally wounded - all the ethical dilemmas (Davros, the Master, Kameleon) are wearing him down, setting up the regeneration. LOCATION WORK: Both hosts praise the Lanzarote filming and volcanic landscapes doubling for Sarn. Jim wanted more of the shipwreck dive sequences. The café scene where the Doctor leaves alien money behind stands out as atypical behavior. THE SOPHIE ALDRED ACE PODCAST UPDATE: John reports the interviews barely discuss Doctor Who - Sylvester McCoy talks about pissing off Richard Burton and friendship with Ian McKellen; Katy Manning discusses life philosophy ("Every day is a blessing"). The hosts approve: "We've heard all the Doctor Who stuff for years!" NEXT TIME: The Caves of Androzani - "Once daily Androzani! Major and minor!" The end of Peter Davison, the introduction of Colin Baker, and the return of Robert Holmes! Subscribe on all platforms. Email thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com. Support at patreon.com/thedoctorsbeardpodcast for $3/month. Hashtags: #DoctorWho #PlanetOfFire #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Turlough #PerryBrown #NicolaBryant #MarkStrickson #TheMaster #AnthonyAinley #Kamelion #PeterGrimwade #FionaCumming #Lanzarote #CanaryIslands #TurloughOrigins #Trion #MiniMaster #TissueCompressionEliminator #CrispyMaster #1984 #ClassicWho #Season21 #Sarn #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #FromCarnageToCleavage #Cheesecake #PinkBikini #Speedo #80sTV #Whovian #CompanionDebut #CompanionExit #PodcastCommunity

Episode Title: "Throwing Daleks Out the Window" - Resurrection of the Daleks Review with The Irredeemable Shag SPECIAL GUEST ALERT: The Irredeemable Shag joins from the Fire & Water Podcast Network for what he calls "The Tegan Jovanka Appreciation Podcast!" A lifelong Davison-era fan who started watching in 1982 at age 10, Shag brings 500+ Doctor Who books worth of knowledge and passionate defense of the Fifth Doctor era. THE STORY: "Resurrection of the Daleks" (February 1984) Writer: Eric Saward (script editor writing his own script) Director: Matthew Robinson Originally filmed as 4-parter, edited to two 45-minute episodes due to Winter Olympics scheduling London 1984 meets space station carnage as the Daleks attack a prison holding Davros in cryogenic suspension. With duplicates, time corridors, Commander Lytton's creepy constables, and the Movellan virus, this becomes the most violent Doctor Who story yet - estimated 70+ deaths! THE BIG QUESTIONS: Should the Doctor Have Killed Davros? The hosts debate the story's central moral dilemma when the Doctor picks up a gun to execute Davros. Jim declares it completely out of character ("That's not the Doctor"). Shag argues Eric Saward wrote declarative statements without explanation. John appreciates the Genesis of the Daleks callback but questions the execution. The Batman/Joker parallels emerge - can heroes cross that line? Terry Nation's Absence: Nation is in America (possibly producing MacGyver) but still approving everything. JNT reveals Nation insisted Davros appear in every Dalek story after Genesis. This is the fourth non-Nation Dalek script (after Whitaker's two, Lewis Marks, and now Saward). The Dalek Civil War Begins: First time Daleks mention Gallifrey! Is this the Time War's origin? The Supreme Dalek versus Davros's renegade faction sets up ongoing Classic Who Dalek continuity. SHAG'S BREAKTHROUGH THEORY: "This is not a Doctor Who story at all. This is the Daleks - which just happens to guest star the Doctor this episode. If you think of this as an ongoing series of Dalek stories where the Doctor guest stars, this whole thing makes perfect sense." The theory revolutionizes the hosts' perspective, raising ratings across the board! ICONIC MOMENTS: Daleks thrown out second-story windows (exploding unnecessarily but fantastically) "My vision is impaired! I cannot see!" Davros going "full spitting Hitler" The Doctor bloodthirstily shooting the Kaled mutant Creepy constables casually slaughtering then chitchatting Stein's stutter disappearing when programming activates That unfortunate foam party when Davros releases the Movellan virus TEGAN'S DEPARTURE - UNIVERSAL AGREEMENT: All three hosts agree: Tegan is completely justified leaving after this massacre. "It's stopped being fun, Doctor." The emotional farewell works despite Jim's overall Tegan fatigue. Janet Fielding's performance is universally praised. The "Braveheart Tegan" callback and the Doctor's "I must mend my ways" provide powerful closure. Shag's observation: JNT specifically chose an emotional departure for Janet after knowing two companions were leaving, wanting each exit to feel different. FIND THE IRREDEEMABLE SHAG: Fire & Water Podcast Network shows: JSA Presents (Justice Society 1990s-2000s) Who's Who: The Definitive Podcast of the DC Universe Marvel Star Wars: From Empire to Jedi Once Upon a Geek NEXT TIME: Planet of Fire - the penultimate Fifth Doctor story! Plus Patreon Exclusive #149 with Four Dimensional Vistas Part 5, music discussion, Memory TARDIS, and John finally reviews Sympathy for the Devil Unbound audio! Subscribe on all platforms. Email thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com. Support at patreon.com/thedoctorsbeardpodcast for $3/month. Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ResurrectionOfTheDaleks #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Daleks #Davros #TerryMolloy #EricSaward #TeganJovanka #JanetFieldding #BraveheartTegan #TeganDeparture #DalekCivilWar #CommanderLytton #TimeWar #Gallifrey #KaledMutant #DoctorWhoViolence #1984 #TheIrredeemableShag #FireAndWater #SpecialGuest #ClassicWho #Season21 #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #Whovian #ThrowingDaleksOutWindows #DalekShow #MoralDilemma #Turlough #MarkStrickson #DoctorWhoHistory

"The Hamster Wheel of Science Fiction Television" - Frontios Review STORY DETAILS: "Frontios" (January 16 - February 3, 1984) Production Code: 6N Writer: Christopher H. Bidmead (former script editor, Logopolis and Castrovalva) Director: Ron Jones (Arc of Infinity, future Colin Baker stories) CAPSULE REVIEW: Jim: "Doctor Who in 1984 is the hamster wheel of science fiction television shows. It just keeps going round and round and doesn't go anywhere." PLOT SUMMARY: The TARDIS is drawn to Frontios in the far future, where Earth has been destroyed and desperate colonists survive constant meteorite bombardment. The Doctor insists they leave (invoking Time Lord non-interference), but the TARDIS appears destroyed by meteors. Captain Revere's son Plantagenet leads the failing colony while second-in-command Range and science officer Brazen navigate political tensions. NEXT EPISODE PREVIEW: Resurrection of the Daleks (two 45-minute parts) with special guest Shag Matthews (The Irredeemable Shag Podcast) - "Now it's going to be two against one!" PATREON PLUG: "Nothing says I love you like a Patreon subscription to The Doctor's Beard" - $3/month gets early access, bonus content, comic strip discussions, Memory TARDIS wheel spins, Doctor Who news coverage, and music theme variations. Current Patreon Exclusive #148 covers Part 4 of "Four Dimensional Vistas" (Meddling Monk + Ice Warrior team-up). SPECIAL APPEAL: Jim asks listeners in Marietta, Georgia area to support Dr. No's Comics after catastrophic power loss from truck taking down lines during Christmas season. Shop running on generator, needs community support through devastating loss of holiday revenue. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major platforms. Email thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or join our Facebook community. Support via Patreon at patreon.com/thedoctorsbeardpodcast. Hashtags: #DoctorWho #Frontios #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Season21 #Tegan #JanetFielding #Turlough #MarkStrickson #ChristopherHBidmead #RonJones #Tractators #TheGravis #ColonyShip #TARDIS #TARDISDestroyed #RecycledPlots #HamsterWheel #SheenaEaston #80sFashion #Plantagenet #TractatorPTSD #RacialMemory #GravityMotor #TimelordNonInterference #JNT #JohnNathanTurner #ColinBaker #SixthDoctor #ClassicDoctorWho #1984 #BBCOne #ProductionCode6N #MonsterOfTheWeek #Woodlice #TargetBooks #AndrewSkilleter #Novelizations #BookCovers #DrNosComics #Marietta #Georgia #ComicShop #ChristmasSeason #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #PodcastReview #Whovian #DoctorWhoFandom #VintageWho #RetroTV #80sTV #SciFiTV #BritishTV #ClassicTV

"Two Is Too Few, Four Is Too Much" - Production 6M: "The Awakening" (January 19-20, 1984) - Classic Doctor Who Season 21 Review The Fifth Doctor brings Tegan to 1984 Little Hodcombe so she can visit her grandfather, Andrew Verney. But the TARDIS materializes in an unstable church during an English Civil War reenactment organized by the local magistrate, Sir George Hutchinson. When Tegan's grandfather goes missing and they encounter Will Chandler—a genuine 17th century peasant pulled through time—the Doctor discovers something sinister beneath the village: the Malus, an alien war machine feeding on psychic energy from the staged battles. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this Season 21 analysis, they debate whether three episodes would be the perfect Doctor Who story length, discuss the rushed pacing versus Jim's feeling it dragged, and explore themes of companion family visits and the show's grounded Earth-based budget-cutting era. Cast Fatigue: By this point, both Peter Davison and Janet Fielding had announced departures (Mark Strickson would follow soon). Jim declares: "I am totally ready for a new Doctor and new companions." The energy has drained after 20 years, with JNT himself seeking other opportunities but trapped by industry circumstances. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com, leaving voicemails at thedoctorsbeardpodcast.com, or joining our active Facebook discussions. Check out Jim Beard's creative work and visit thedoctorsbeardpodcast.com for John's new Target novelization review blog series starting with "An Unearthly Child"! Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus content, and support our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #TheAwakening #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Season21 #TeganJovanka #JanetFielding #Turlough #MarkStrickson #TheMalus #EnglishCivilWar #WillChandler #KeithJayne #EricPringle #TwoPartStory #BaseUnderSiege #PsychicEnergy #CompanionFamily #TeganGrandfather #LittleHodcombe #1984 #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #ProductionDesign #ChurchSet #LocationFilming #DoctorWhoHistory #ClassicWho #BBC #BritishSciFi #DoctorWhoFandom #Kamelion #DeletedScenes #BehindTheScenes #ColinBaker #SixthDoctor #CompanionDeparture #CastFatigue #JNT #JohnNathanTurner #TargetNovels

"There Should Have Been Another Way" Production 6M: "Warriors of the Deep" (January 5-13, 1984) Classic Doctor Who Season 21 Premiere Review In the year 2084, the Fifth Doctor, Tegan, and Turlough materialize at Sea Base Four, a military installation staffed with personnel on high alert due to tensions that could trigger World War III. An unknown object lurking in the waters proves to be a Silurian battlecruiser seeking to revive suspended animation Sea Devil warriors stored in underwater chambers. The reptilian cousins plan to manipulate the base's weapon systems to start a nuclear war, wiping out humanity so they can reclaim Earth as their ancestral home. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this Season 21 premiere analysis covering this notorious production, they discuss: Production Nightmare Behind the Scenes: Margaret Thatcher's election sabotage - The 1983 UK general election announcement created BBC studio space demands, costing Doctor Who two weeks of production time and forcing rushed filming with minimal rehearsal The infamous Myrka disaster - The creature costume was still being sculpted and painted an hour before shooting, with wet paint and adhesive fumes getting one operator high. The poorly-fitted suit left performers uncomfortable and unable to rehearse, resulting in slow-motion movements that destroyed any sense of menace Johnny Byrne's disappointment - The writer envisioned dark, Alien-inspired sets with the Myrka glimpsed briefly in shadows, not brightly-lit corridors showcasing every flaw. He vowed never to work for Doctor Who again Character and Story Analysis: The Doctor's uncharacteristic violence - Jim questions Byrne's characterization showing the Fifth Doctor as naive, foolish, and suddenly engaging in unnecessary hand-to-hand combat Tegan and Turlough's evolving dynamic - The companions finally bond over eye-rolling about the Doctor, though both still don't want to be traveling in the TARDIS. Tegan suffers through another story of being trapped, taken hostage, and reduced to damsel-in-distress after her previous action hero moments The moral dilemma arrives too late - Part 4's ethical debate about genocide feels rushed when it should have been developed earlier. Jim controversially argues the Doctor was wrong to hesitate using the hexachromite gas with billions of lives at stake Base Under Siege formula exhaustion - After 21 years, this well-worn plot structure offers no surprises: the paranoid commander, the likable female officer, the traitors within, the invaders, the giant creature. Viewers who've watched for two decades have seen it all before Design and Direction Problems: Moon Base Alpha aesthetic - The overly-bright, sterile sets fail to convey an underwater atmosphere despite occasional model shots of the Silurian ship Dr. No radiation suits - The guards' helmets appear identical to the 1962 Bond film's radiation gear (the wiki claims they're the actual costumes, though Jim remains skeptical) Laughable battle sequences - No muzzle flashes or laser beams, just actors pointing rifles in extreme slow motion. Quick cuts could have salvaged excitement, but Roberts' clumsy direction makes conflicts feel like rehearsals rather than life-or-death struggles Skirt Gate - The famous blooper where a falling door clearly weighs nothing as Janet Fielding's every tiny movement lifts it Ingrid Pitt's karate vs. the Myrka - The former Hammer horror star (playing Dr. Solow) deliberately aged herself up and performed unconvincing martial arts against the creature in an obvious first-take Reptilian Reunion: First team-up of Silurians and Sea Devils - Despite being "cousins," the two reptilian species look nothing alike, with Sea Devils acting as subservient warriors to Silurian scientists Redesigned Sea Devils - New helmets with Asian-influenced design reminiscent of Buck Rogers' Draconians, with illuminated third eyes solving the mouth-movement problem Jim argues this represents Doctor Who's aging fanbase problem - like 1980s comics, the show wasn't attracting new young viewers, leaving only "cranky old fans" who'd seen every trope before. The hosts debate whether the Doctor's final moment of regret will carry into the next serial, with John insisting it must affect the character going forward. Extended Listener Mail Segment: The episode features six emails discussing The Five Doctors, providing retrospective thoughts on the anniversary special, Tom Baker's absence, Richard Hurndall's performance, and various behind-the-scenes details. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content, character analysis, and fan theories. Check out Jim Beard's latest creative release - a beautiful blank journal book "Snowball Strums a Story" featuring an original sketch from Jim himself, perfect for Whovians and creative writers! Available now on Amazon for only $7.99 with 200 pages of lined and blank pages: https://www.amazon.com/Snowball-Strums-Story-Thinkin-Journal/dp/B0FTVDVD45 Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis, and special multimedia reviews covering comics, audio dramas, and music. Your support helps us continue our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #WarriorsOfTheDeep #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Season21 #Silurians #SeaDevils #Myrka #ReptilianReunion #Icthar #TeganJovanka #JanetFielding #Turlough #MarkStrickson #BaseUnderSiege #ProductionDisaster #TheMyrka #BehindTheScenes #MichaelGrade #JohnnyByrne #PennantRoberts #MargaretThatcher #BBCProduction #DoctorWho1984 #ProductionNightmare #DrSolow #IngridPitt #SeaBase4 #UnderwaterBase #2084 #ColdWarSciFi #MoralDilemma #Genocide #HexachromiteGas #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #DoctorWhoHistory #ClassicWho #BBC #BritishSciFi #DoctorWhoFandom #ProductionProblems #SpecialEffectsDisaster #PepperPots #ReptilianAliens #DoctorWhoVillains #JonPertwee #ThirdDoctor #SkirtGate #WardrobeMalfunction #DrNo #JamesBond

"Orange Whip, Orange Whip, Orange Whip" - Production 6K: "The Five Doctors" (November 23/25, 1983) - Classic Doctor Who 20th Anniversary Special Review The ultimate Doctor Who celebration arrives! To commemorate two decades of time travel adventures, all five incarnations of the Doctor are mysteriously pulled out of time and transported to the Death Zone on Gallifrey - the ancient forbidden wasteland where Time Lords once staged gladiatorial games. The First Doctor (Richard Hurndall) and granddaughter Susan, the Second Doctor (Patrick Troughton) and Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart, the Third Doctor (Jon Pertwee) and Sarah Jane Smith, and the Fifth Doctor (Peter Davison) with companions Tegan and Turlough must navigate deadly traps, face classic enemies including Daleks, Cybermen, and a Raston Warrior Robot, and ultimately reach the Dark Tower to discover who has orchestrated this temporal kidnapping. Meanwhile, the Fourth Doctor remains trapped in a time eddy. The Master receives a presidential pardon to help, Lord President Borusa harbors dark secrets about immortality, and the fate of all Gallifrey hangs in the balance in this 90-minute anniversary extravaganza. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space with an incredible lineup of special guests! From The Flopcast, the Mayor of Chickentown herself, Felicity Kusinitz returns to claim the Second Doctor. From The OSI Files podcast, artist extraordinaire Jerry Lange champions the Fourth Doctor (despite Tom Baker's controversial absence). And from the late Doctor Who Gives a Bleep podcast and current host of The Bat77 podcast, JB Anderton takes on the First Doctor role. In this comprehensive anniversary special analysis, the hosts discuss: The Tom Baker controversy - Why the Fourth Doctor was reduced to archive footage from the unfinished "Shada" serial, theories about his refusal (too soon after leaving, not wanting to share the spotlight, conflicting theatre commitments with "Educating Rita"), and whether the public knew beforehand Richard Hurndall's remarkable performance - How the replacement First Doctor exceeded expectations and created wonderful chemistry with both Carol Ann Ford's Susan and surprisingly, Tegan Robert Holmes' rejected script - The original "Six Doctors" concept featuring a robot First Doctor and Cybermen becoming "Cyber-Lords" (a concept Chris Chibnall would eventually use) Perfect companion pairings - Sarah Jane with the Third Doctor and the Brigadier with the Second Doctor as happy accidents that became highlights Production challenges - The Eye of Orion footage damage requiring Mark Strickson's emergency recall ("Strickson phone home!"), the abandoned hang glider sequence replaced by the zip line, and Elizabeth Sladen's unfortunate costume choices Patrick Troughton and Jon Pertwee's minimal aging - Both looking remarkably like their original incarnations despite years away from the role The balance of multiple Doctors - How the script successfully gave each incarnation meaningful moments without anyone overpowering the others American vs. British viewing experiences - PBS broadcasting it two days before the BBC on the actual anniversary during the Chicago convention Jim declares this "a lot of fun" and "almost everything I wanted" - a breath of fresh air with excellent character interactions, though Tom Baker's absence remains the only significant downbeat. The panel agrees that all actors played their roles straight without mugging or winking, creating a sincere celebration rather than a farce. This landmark special aired November 23, 1983 on American PBS stations (particularly WTTW Chicago during the massive "Visions" convention) and November 25, 1983 on BBC1 during Children in Need. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content, character analysis, and fan theories. Check out Jim Beard's latest creative release - a beautiful blank journal book featuring an original sketch from Jim himself, perfect for Whovians and creative writers! Available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Snowball-Strums-Story-Thinkin-Journal/dp/B0FTVDVD45 Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis, and special multimedia reviews covering comics, audio dramas, and music. Your support helps us continue our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #TheFiveDoctors #20thAnniversary #AnniversarySpecial #ClassicDoctorWho #FirstDoctor #WilliamHartnell #RichardHurndall #SecondDoctor #PatrickTroughton #ThirdDoctor #JonPertwee #FourthDoctor #TomBaker #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #SarahJaneSmith #ElisabethSladen #BrigadierLethbridgeStewart #NicholasCourtney #Susan #CarolAnnFord #TeganJovanka #Turlough #TheMaster #AnthonyAinley #Borusa #Gallifrey #DeathZone #DarkTower #Cybermen #Daleks #RastonWarriorRobot #Shada #TerenceDicks #PeterMoffatt #JohnNathanTurner #DoctorWho1983 #MultiDoctor #ChildrenInNeed #PBS #WTTW #ChicagoConvention #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #SpecialGuests #FelicityKusinitz #TheFlopcast #JerryLang #TheOSIFiles #JBAnderton #TARDIS #Whovian #TimeLords #DoctorWhoHistory #LandmarkEpisode #DoctorWhoFandom #MultiDoctorStory #BluesBrothers #OrangeWhip

Production 6J: "The King's Demons" (March 15-16, 1983) - Classic Doctor Who Season 20 Finale Review The TARDIS fails to reach Turlough's promised homeworld of Trion, instead materializing in Medieval England during March 1215 - the crucial period leading to the signing of the Magna Carta, one of history's most important constitutional documents. The Fifth Doctor, Tegan, and Turlough arrive at Fitzwilliam Castle to discover King John behaving extraordinarily out of character, acting with uncharacteristic cruelty and tyranny that threatens to derail the entire timeline. The erratic monarch appears to be under the sinister influence of Sir Gilles Estram, a mysterious French nobleman whose features look disturbingly familiar to the Doctor. Investigating this temporal anomaly, the Doctor uncovers a devastating plot orchestrated by his oldest and most persistent nemesis - the Master (Anthony Ainley) has traveled back in time to prevent the Magna Carta from ever being signed, fundamentally altering Earth's democratic history and destabilizing the entire future of human civilization. At the center of this scheme is Kamelion, a shape-shifting android with extraordinary abilities who becomes a pawn in the Master's game and an unexpected addition to the TARDIS crew. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this Season 20 finale analysis, they dissect the complicated behind-the-scenes story of Kamelion - the ambitious shape-changing robot companion whose technical malfunctions plagued production and limited future appearances, critique how writer Terence Dudley once again relegates both Tegan Jovanka and Turlough to passive bystander roles with minimal character development or meaningful participation, and argue that this two-part story desperately needed additional episodes to properly develop its ambitious historical premise and Master plot. This episode features a remarkably candid conversation about the Fifth Doctor himself. Jim comes clean about his ongoing struggle to connect with Peter Davison's interpretation - after twenty episodes, he still isn't feeling this incarnation and openly wonders if he ever will warm to the Fifth Doctor's gentle, vulnerable characterization. John empathizes completely with Jim's perspective while defending his own position: Peter Davison remains John's absolute favorite Doctor precisely because of the understated qualities Jim finds frustrating - his compassion, emotional accessibility, and fallible heroism rather than commanding authority. "The King's Demons" concludes Season 20's uneven journey toward the monumental 20th Anniversary Special that awaits in November 1983. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content, character analysis, and fan theories. Check out Jim Beard's latest creative release - a beautiful blank journal book featuring an original sketch from Jim himself, perfect for Whovians and creative writers! Available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Snowball-Strums-Story-Thinkin-Journal/dp/B0FTVDVD45 Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis, and special multimedia reviews covering comics, audio dramas, and music. Your support helps us continue our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #TheKingsDemos #Season20Finale #TheMaster #AnthonyAinley #Kamelion #ShapeShiftingRobot #RobotCompanion #Turlough #MarkStrickson #TeganJovanka #JanetFielding #MagnaCarta #KingJohn #MedievalEngland #HistoricalDoctor #1215AD #TerenceDudley #DoctorWho1983 #20thAnniversary #SeasonFinale #NewCompanion #TimeTravelParadox #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #PeterDavisonDebate #FavoriteDoctor #DoctorWhoOpinions #MasterPlan #ClassicWho #BBC #BritishSciFi #DoctorWhoFandom #DoctorWhoHistory #SciFiTV #ConstitutionalHistory #DoctorWhoVillains #JimBeard #CreativeJournal #ProductionIssues #BehindTheScenes

Production 6H: "Enlightenment" (March 1-9, 1983) - Classic Doctor Who Season 20 Review The Black Guardian Trilogy reaches its spectacular conclusion as the TARDIS materializes aboard an elegant Edwardian racing yacht - but this is no ordinary vessel. The ship sails not across Earth's oceans, but through the infinite void of space itself, crewed by the mysterious Eternals - immortal beings who exist outside normal time, observing mortal "Ephemerals" with detached fascination while desperately seeking meaning in their endless existence. These god-like entities have organized a cosmic race across the solar system, with ships styled after various historical periods competing for the ultimate prize: Enlightenment itself, a crystallized form of absolute knowledge and truth. Caught between the manipulations of both the White Guardian and Black Guardian, Vislor Turlough must finally choose his allegiance - will he murder the Doctor to save himself, or reject the Black Guardian's promised rewards? Meanwhile, Tegan Jovanka finds herself the unwilling object of affection from Captain Striker, an Eternal who cannot comprehend human emotions yet is fascinated by her temporal existence. The Fifth Doctor races to prevent catastrophe as the competition reaches its climax and the true nature of Enlightenment is revealed. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this Black Guardian Trilogy finale analysis, they explore writer Barbara Clegg's philosophical concepts behind the Eternals and their parasitic relationship with mortal consciousness, debate the story's frustratingly anticlimactic and unsatisfying resolution that undermines the trilogy's buildup, and examine the fascinating dynamic where Turlough emerges as the voice of pragmatic reason compared to the Doctor's more reckless heroism - reversing their expected character roles. This episode addresses two crucial questions: Where did John and Jim ultimately land in their numerical rating for this ambitious yet flawed conclusion to the season-spanning Black Guardian arc? And at this pivotal halfway point through Peter Davison's tenure as the Fifth Doctor, has Jim's skepticism about this incarnation softened, or does he remain unconvinced by Davison's understated performance style? Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content, character analysis, and fan theories. Check out Jim Beard's latest creative release - a beautiful blank journal book featuring an original sketch from Jim himself, perfect for Whovians and creative writers! Available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Snowball-Strums-Story-Thinkin-Journal/dp/B0FTVDVD45 Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis, and special multimedia reviews covering comics, audio dramas, and music. Your support helps us continue our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Enlightenment #Season20 #BlackGuardian #BlackGuardianTrilogy #TrilogyConclusion #WhiteGuardian #Eternals #Ephemerals #Turlough #MarkStrickson #TeganJovanka #JanetFielding #BarbaraClegg #CosmicRace #SpaceYacht #CaptainStriker #PhilosophicalSciFi #ImmortalBeings #DoctorWho1983 #20thAnniversary #CharacterDevelopment #MoralDilemma #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #CompanionRedemption #GuardiansOfTime #ClassicWho #BBC #BritishSciFi #DoctorWhoFandom #DoctorWhoHistory #SciFiTV #ConceptualSciFi #DoctorWhoPhilosophy #JimBeard #CreativeJournal #PeterDavisonDebate

Production 6G: "Terminus" (February 15-23, 1983) - Classic Doctor Who Season 20 Review The TARDIS crew faces heartbreak as beloved companion Nyssa of Traken makes her emotional departure from the Doctor's travels. After narrowly escaping the Black Guardian's schemes in the previous adventure, the Fifth Doctor, Tegan, and newly-arrived Turlough find themselves trapped aboard Terminus - a massive deteriorating space station serving as a quarantine facility and leper colony for victims of the incurable and dreaded Lazar's disease (also known as Lazars' Syndrome). This plague causes horrific decay and degeneration, with sufferers banished to Terminus where the mysterious robotic Vanir administer inadequate treatment using controlled doses of radiation from the station's unstable engines. As the Doctor investigates Terminus's terrible secret - that the station sits at the exact center of the known universe and may have caused the Big Bang itself - compassionate Nyssa witnesses the suffering of countless Lazar victims denied proper care. In a stunning character-defining moment, Sarah Sutton's Nyssa chooses to leave the TARDIS forever, dedicating her scientific knowledge and Trakenite healing abilities to finding a genuine cure for Lazar's disease and providing humane treatment to the abandoned plague victims. Her selfless sacrifice represents one of Classic Doctor Who's most noble companion exits. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this bittersweet Season 20 analysis, they discuss the poignant farewell to Nyssa after two and a half seasons of adventures, critique how writer Stephen Gallagher and script editor Eric Saward frustratingly sideline both Turlough and Tegan throughout the serial (reducing them to passive observers despite being featured cast), and highlight the desperate need for stronger script editing to tighten Steve Gallagher's ambitious but unfocused and meandering narrative that struggles to balance cosmic mythology with human drama. Jim candidly admits he will genuinely miss Nyssa's presence and Sarah Sutton's consistently excellent performances, but acknowledges her departure feels appropriately timed - her character role had been significantly diminished throughout Season 20 as the crowded TARDIS team left insufficient story material for her scientific expertise and compassionate nature to shine. The Black Guardian Trilogy continues with cosmic stakes and emotional consequences. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content, character analysis, and fan theories. Check out Jim Beard's latest creative release - a beautiful blank journal book featuring an original sketch from Jim himself, perfect for Whovians and creative writers! Available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Snowball-Strums-Story-Thinkin-Journal/dp/B0FTVDVD45 Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis, and special multimedia reviews covering comics, audio dramas, and music. Your support helps us continue our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Terminus #Season20 #Nyssa #SarahSutton #NyssaDeparture #CompanionExit #FarewellNyssa #Turlough #MarkStrickson #TeganJovanka #JanetFielding #BlackGuardianTrilogy #LazarsDisease #LazarsSyndrome #SpaceStation #BigBang #UniverseOrigin #StephenGallagher #EricSaward #ScriptEditor #DoctorWho1983 #CompanionFarewell #TrakenCompanion #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #EmotionalExit #SelflessSacrifice #DoctorWhoCompanions #ClassicWho #BBC #BritishSciFi #DoctorWhoFandom #DoctorWhoHistory #SciFiTV #JimBeard #CreativeJournal #OriginalArt #DoctorWhoMerchandise #20thAnniversary

Production 6F: "Mawdryn Undead" (February 1-9, 1983) - Classic Doctor Who Season 20 Review The Fifth Doctor experiences a bittersweet reunion with his dear friend Brigadier Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart - but something is terribly wrong. The retired UNIT commander has completely lost all memory of the Time Lord and their adventures together defending Earth from alien threats. Investigating this troubling amnesia, the Doctor discovers the Brigadier's memory loss stems from a catastrophic temporal paradox involving two different versions of the Brigadier meeting simultaneously in 1977 and 1983. At the center of this crisis is the tragic Mawdryn, leader of a group of exiled scientists who attempted to steal the secret of Time Lord regeneration but instead became hideously mutated, unable to die yet condemned to an eternity of agonizing transformations. As the Doctor navigates this complex temporal puzzle, he must confront the limitations of his own regenerative abilities and the sacred twelve-regeneration cycle that governs all Time Lords. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this pivotal Season 20 episode analysis, they welcome special guest Felicity Kusinitz from The Flopcast podcast for an engaging three-way discussion. The trio celebrates the triumphant return of Nicholas Courtney as Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart after a five-year absence, analyze the mysterious introduction of new companion Vislor Turlough (Mark Strickson) - whose true allegiance remains hidden, and explore writer Peter Grimwade's expansion of Time Lord mythology cementing the canonical twelve-regeneration limit that would define Doctor Who lore for decades. In a delightful segment, Felicity and John attempt to convert the skeptical Jim - who remains unconvinced about the Fifth Doctor - by passionately defending Peter Davison's vulnerable, compassionate portrayal and explaining why this incarnation resonates so deeply with longtime fans despite his more understated heroism. "Mawdryn Undead" launches producer John Nathan-Turner's ambitious Black Guardian Trilogy, a season-spanning story arc featuring the return of Valentine Dyall's cosmic villain seeking revenge against the Doctor. This trilogy format represented innovative serialized storytelling in Classic Doctor Who's traditionally episodic structure. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content, character analysis, and fan theories. Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis, and special multimedia reviews covering comics, audio dramas, and music. Your support helps us continue our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #MawdrynUndead #Season20 #BrigadierLethbridgeStewart #TheBrigadier #NicholasCourtney #UNIT #Turlough #MarkStrickson #NewCompanion #BlackGuardian #BlackGuardianTrilogy #ValentineDyall #TimeLordMythology #RegenerationCycle #Twelve Regenerations #PeterGrimwade #JohnNathanTurner #DoctorWho1983 #20thAnniversary #TemporalParadox #TimeTravel #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #SpecialGuest #FelicityKusinitz #TheFlopcast #BrigadierReturns #TARDIS #Whovian #UNITFamily #CompanionIntroduction #DoctorWhoLore #TimeLord #Gallifrey #BBC #BritishSciFi #DoctorWhoFandom #ClassicWho #StoryArc #DoctorWhoHistory #SciFiTV #DoctorWhoCanon

Production 6E: "Arc of Infinity" (January 3-12, 1983) - Classic Doctor Who Season 20 Premiere Review Omega, the legendary renegade Time Lord and architect of Gallifreyan time travel, makes his shocking return with a desperate plan to escape his antimatter prison and re-enter the positive matter universe. Using the Arc of Infinity as his gateway, Omega hijacks the Fifth Doctor's biodata pattern to create a physical duplicate body - but his scheme becomes entangled with companion Tegan Jovanka's search for her missing cousin Colin Frazer in the picturesque streets of Amsterdam, leading to an explosive confrontation in the heart of the Dutch capital. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this Season 20 premiere analysis, they celebrate Nyssa's remarkable character development and maturation beyond her sheltered Trakenite origins, explore how the Fifth Doctor finally demonstrates genuine agency and authority compared to his earlier passive characterization, and Jim shares his candid disappointment with Tegan's controversial new costume design that replaced her beloved air stewardess uniform. The hosts also examine writer Johnny Byrne's ambitious return to Doctor Who mythology, producer John Nathan-Turner's bold decision to film on location in Amsterdam, and the return of Michael Gough to Doctor Who. This episode marks an exciting new chapter as Season 20 begins the countdown to Doctor Who's monumental 20th anniversary celebration later in the year! Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content, character analysis, and fan theories. Become a Patreon member today for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis, and special multimedia reviews covering comics, audio dramas, and music. Your support helps us continue our complete journey through Classic Doctor Who! Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #ArcOfInfinity #Season20 #SeasonPremiere #Omega #TimeLords #Gallifrey #Nyssa #SarahSutton #TeganJovanka #JanetFielding #Amsterdam #OnLocation #DoctorWho1983 #JohnnyByrne #JohnNathanTurner #EricSaward #RenegadeTimeLord #AntimatterUniverse #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #20thAnniversary #CompanionDevelopment #CharacterAnalysis #DoctorWhoAmsterdam #BBC #BritishSciFi #DoctorWhoFandom #TimeLordMythology #GallifreyStory #ClassicWho #DoctorWho20 #DoctorWhoHistory #SciFiTV #ColinFrazer #DoctorWhoVillains

Production 6C: "Time-Flight" (March 22-30, 1982) - Classic Doctor Who Season 19 Finale Review The Fifth Doctor's planned visit to London's Great Exhibition takes a dramatic detour when the TARDIS becomes trapped in a mysterious time corridor alongside missing Concorde supersonic aircraft, leading to an unexpected encounter with prehistoric Earth and ancient mysteries. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they master time and space, delivering in-depth reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this compelling season finale analysis, they welcome special guest Alan J. Porter (renowned author and podcaster) to explore the emotional aftermath of Adric's shocking death, celebrate the triumphant return of the Master, and dissect the devastating season-ending cliffhanger that leaves companion Tegan Jovanka stranded at Heathrow Airport. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with our passionate Whovian community by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our active Facebook and BlueSky discussions for exclusive Doctor Who content and fan theories. Support our thriving Patreon community for early episode access, bonus behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive deep-dive Doctor Who analysis from your favorite hosts. Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #TimeFlight #Season19Finale #TheMaster #TeganJovanka #AdricDeath #CompanionExit #Concorde #TimeTravel #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #SciFi #BBC #DoctorWhoClassic #DoctorWho1982 #SeasonFinale #DoctorWhoAnalysis #AlanJPorter #SpecialGuest #DoctorWhoFandom #TimeLord #Gallifrey #DoctorWhoHistory #BritishSciFi #HeathrowAirport #CompanionDeparture #CliffHanger

Production 6B: "Earthshock" (March 8-16, 1982) - Classic Doctor Who Review The Doctor's TARDIS materializes on a future Earth where the Cybermen orchestrate their most devastating plan yet - bombing a galactic conference to destroy world leaders and reshape the universe's destiny. Join podcaster John S. Drew and acclaimed writer/editor Jim Beard as they become masters of time and space, delivering comprehensive reviews of every Classic Doctor Who serial. In this emotional episode analysis, they dive deep into Eric Saward's masterful scriptwriting, examine the shocking departure of beloved companion Adric, and explore how this serial revolutionized the Cybermen's deadly new tactics in the Whoniverse. Subscribe to The Doctor's Beard Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms. Connect with fellow Whovians by emailing us at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or joining our vibrant Facebook and BlueSky communities for exclusive Doctor Who discussions. Support our Patreon community for early episode access, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive bonus material featuring deep-dive Doctor Who analysis. Hashtags: #DoctorWho #ClassicDoctorWho #FifthDoctor #PeterDavison #Cybermen #Earthshock #Adric #CompanionDeparture #EricSaward #DoctorWhoReview #DoctorWhoPodcast #TheDoctorsBeardPodcast #TARDIS #Whovian #SciFi #BBC #DoctorWhoClassic #DoctorWho1982 #CybermanStory #DoctorWhoAnalysis #DoctorWhoFandom #TimeLord #Gallifrey #DoctorWhoHistory #BritishSciFi

Production 6A March 1-2 1982 The TARDIS lands in 1922 where Cranleigh Hall is being haunted by a mysterious figure and dead servants that only the Doctor apparently sees. Podcaster John S. Drew and writer/editor Jim Beard join forces once again to become the masters of time and space as they watch and review every single episode of the Classic Doctor Who series. In this episode, they are joined by artist Jerry Lange. Together, they discuss the stopping of the bickering among the crew, the obvious mystery, and the humor of the story. In addition, we have additional commentary from our Patreon subscribers who joined us to hear the podcast recorded live. Please make sure you are subscribed to our podcast via any of the major popular podcasting apps. You can write and comment or ask questions of us via email at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or by joining our Facebook community. Join our Patreon community where your sponsorship earns you early access to new episodes as well as exclusive content. Click on the link here to take you to the Patreon page.

Production 5X February 15-23, 1982 The TARDIS lands near London in 1666, where the Doctor manages to stop an alien invasion, but burns down London in the process. Podcaster John S. Drew and writer/editor Jim Beard join forces once again to become the masters of time and space as they watch and review every single episode of the Classic Doctor Who series. In this episode, they discuss the argumentative nature of the companions, the lack of essential Doctor in Davison's portrayal, and the wonder of Richard Mace. Please make sure you are subscribed to our podcast via any of the major popular podcasting apps. You can write and comment or ask questions of us via email at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or by joining our Facebook community. Join our Patreon community where your sponsorship earns you early access to new episodes as well as exclusive content. Click on the link here to take you to the Patreon page.

Production 5Y February 1-9, 1982 As Nyssa recuperates in the TARDIS, the Doctor, Tegan and Adric explore the world of Deva Loka where an Earth exhibition have uncovered the Kinda, but do not know the deadly secret these peaceful people hide. Podcaster John S. Drew and writer/editor Jim Beard join forces once again to become the masters of time and space as they watch and review every single episode of the Classic Doctor Who series. In this episode, they discuss the sidelining of Nyssa, the performance of Janet Fielding and Jim's pinning who this Doctor is. Please make sure you are subscribed to our podcast via any of the major popular podcasting apps. You can write and comment or ask questions of us via email at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or by joining our Facebook community. Join our Patreon community where your sponsorship earns you early access to new episodes as well as exclusive content. Click on the link here to take you to the Patreon page.

"Four to Doomsday" Production 5W January 18-26, 1982 The TARDIS lands on a vessel bound for Earth with four different groups of humans from different times and cultures. But are they human? And what are the intentions of Monarch and his fellow Urbankans? Podcaster John S. Drew and writer/editor Jim Beard join forces once again to become the masters of time and space as they watch and review every single episode of the Classic Doctor Who series. In this episode, they discuss the character development, the making of the episode, and the comparisons with the Hartnell era. Please make sure you are subscribed to our podcast via any of the major popular podcasting apps. You can write and comment or ask questions of us via email at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or by joining our Facebook community. Join our Patreon community where your sponsorship earns you early access to new episodes as well as exclusive content. Click on the link here to take you to the Patreon page.

"Castrovalva" Production 5Z January 4-21, 1982 The Doctor struggles to settle into his new incarnation, taking the TARDIS to the world of Castrovalva where the Master has set a trap. Podcaster John S. Drew and writer/editor Jim Beard join forces once again to become the masters of time and space as they watch and review every single episode of the Classic Doctor Who series. In this episode, they discuss Peter Davison as the Doctor, the role of the Watcher, and the Tegan and Nyssa's relationship. Please make sure you are subscribed to our podcast via any of the major popular podcasting apps. You can write and comment or ask questions of us via email at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or by joining our Facebook community. Join our Patreon community where your sponsorship earns you early access to new episodes as well as exclusive content. Click on the link here to take you to the Patreon page.

"K9 & Company" Production 7P December 28, 1981 Sarah Jane investigates a coven of witches with her new found friend, K9. Podcaster John S. Drew and writer/editor Jim Beard join forces once again to become the masters of time and space as they watch and review every single episode of the Classic Doctor Who series. In this episode, they discuss the pairing of two iconic companions, the concept of the show as a series, and the lack of motive for a supposed mystery. Please make sure you are subscribed to our podcast via any of the major popular podcasting apps. You can write and comment or ask questions of us via email at thedoctorsbeardpodcast@gmail.com or by joining our Facebook community. Join our Patreon community where your sponsorship earns you early access to new episodes as well as exclusive content. Click on the link here to take you to the Patreon page.