This is going to be interesting. I'm totally blown away by this choice - but I trust Moffat to know what he is doing. I remember when they chose Davidson to replace Tom Baker - I was so mad, but ended up liking Davidson anyway. We'll have to wait and see how this turns out.

I'm happy. I was worried I was going to be disappointed as I wasn't keen on any of the bookies' choices but I am happy. I think he is a complete loon and therefore perfect for the part. Hopefully he'll stick around for more than three years and not break my heart like DT!

Anon
Agreed, the choice is definitely 'out there'. It's good they didn't feel the necessity to get a 'big' name.

I don't remember the announcement when Davison was to follow Baker but I do remember the regeneration very clearly. Wasn't too upset 'cos old Tommy B scared the crap out of me (still does!)


Emm
ha ha , "a complete loon" - that sums him up beautifully!
I'm also very happy that the "Bookies' Favourites" turned out to be so wrong.
Here's to 2010!

I would love for such a young Doctor to have an older companion -- I can just picture a granny dusting the TARDIS...!

Yah, I suggest Cathy T as her 'Nan' character.

They could totally do a Sid and Nancy'esque Doctor/Companion thing now. It'd be interesting.

Everyone seems to be vouching for the new boy, so I'll totally give him a shot.

It was definitely an interesting choice. Now, on with the companion betting.

(I wonder how much money was lost with all the Doctor betting.)

Hah. Apparently, ask and I shall receive. Though I *really* don't believe the Beeb didn't know...for as far as I've seen, the Beeb seems to be omniscient.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5i-OmTo0Q-kkq3XPTJIhPDnpwfMug

Sid 'n' Nancy? That would be high on the old intrigue monitor. Two effed up youths creating carnage throughout the universe!

I became aware of his odds being slashed on Friday so I'm sure the BEEB were too. I think, due to their charter, the BBC cannot be seen in any way to promote gambling. Especially in the context of a family show.

Who says the next companion is going to be female?
It could be a guy...or it could be two people. If Moffatt is wanting to get away from the romantic doctor stuff it could be anything. Who knows we might get a new Romana...just pray its not another Mel

Who says the next companion is going to be female?

Me, that's who!

Of course, the production team may indeed not go for a gurl. Unlikely, but possible. Three in the TARDIS would also work as the Jack, Rose & Ninth Doc proved.

Odd you should mention Romana 'cos I've just name~checked her in my list of proposed actresses (oops!) to play the companion.

It's funny that although it was over twenty years ago, the memory of Mel lingers....*shudders*

I need to find a way to watch Party Animals.

I remember seeing "Matty S" (that nickname just tickles me in funny places) in Ruby in the Smoke *ages* ago and thought, "Who's this guy playing Jim? He's great! I'd love to see him in other stuff." Then I checked his work and he mostly did theater, so I figured I wouldn't see him much.

Then, while watching that special DWC, his face popped up and I almost yelled out, "HOLY CRAP!" It was so surprising and very exciting to see this brilliant young actor again, and being cast as the next Doctor to boot!

So, color me very happy.

I missed Ruby in the Smoke and the sequel but, like you, from his first appearance I was impressed (and mentioned here!)

As soon as they said 'youngest actor ever' I knew it was going to be him. I think he's a great and very exciting choice. Roll on 2010!

As for Party Animals, it is available on DVD though I noticed it's not in stock anywhere! Hopefully the BEEB might repeat it (which they haven't yet - bah!).