Matt Smith, the Eleventh Doctor, brought a unique and energetic charm to “Doctor Who.” Here are some fun behind-the-scenes facts about his time as the Doctor:
- Youngest Doctor: At 26, Smith was the youngest actor to be cast as the Doctor, bringing a youthful energy to the role.
- Signature Bow Tie: Smith’s insistence on the Doctor wearing a bow tie, inspired by his love for the quirky fashion accessory, became a defining characteristic.
- Improvisation: Smith often improvised lines and scenes, adding spontaneity and depth to his character. His “Geronimo!” catchphrase was also his creation.
- Close with Cast: Smith formed strong bonds with his co-stars, particularly Karen Gillan (Amy Pond) and Arthur Darvill (Rory Williams), fostering a familial atmosphere on set.
- Physical Role: Known for his physicality, Smith incorporated his love for movement and dance into his portrayal, making his Doctor more dynamic and energetic.
Production Insights
- Showrunner Transition: Steven Moffat took over as showrunner from Russell T Davies when Matt Smith joined, leading to a shift in tone and style.
- Creative Writing: Moffat’s writing often involved complex story arcs and time travel paradoxes, challenging the cast and crew to think creatively about how to visualize and produce these elements.
- Special Effects: The production team used a mix of practical effects and CGI to create the unique alien worlds and creatures, with advancements in technology allowing for more ambitious visual storytelling.
- Iconic Locations: Many iconic episodes were filmed in various locations across the UK, including the picturesque Welsh countryside and historic sites, adding authenticity and grandeur to the show.
- Costume and Props: The costume department meticulously designed the Doctor’s iconic outfit, while the props team created memorable items like the new Sonic Screwdriver and various alien artifacts.
Top 5 Matt Smith Episodes
- “The Eleventh Hour” (Season 5, Episode 1):
- Smith’s debut episode, where he establishes his unique take on the Doctor while saving the world in 20 minutes.
- “Vincent and the Doctor” (Season 5, Episode 10):
- A heartfelt episode exploring mental illness through the lens of Vincent van Gogh, featuring a touching portrayal by Tony Curran.
- “The Day of the Doctor” (50th Anniversary Special):
- A multi-Doctor special celebrating the show’s legacy with thrilling moments and fan-favorite characters, featuring David Tennant and John Hurt.
- “The Time of the Doctor” (Season 7, Episode 15):
- Smith’s emotional farewell, featuring a showdown with multiple enemies and a poignant regeneration scene.
- “The Doctor’s Wife” (Season 6, Episode 4):
- Written by Neil Gaiman, this episode explores the Doctor’s relationship with the TARDIS, personified in human form by Suranne Jones.
Matt Smith’s era is remembered for its whimsical charm, emotional depth, and adventurous spirit, significantly impacting “Doctor Who” and its fanbase.