Doctor Who Revives Classic Companion Turlough After 41 Years

Doctor Who has once again delighted fans by bringing back a beloved character, Vislor Turlough, portrayed by Mark Strickson, in a new short film. This return marks the first onscreen appearance of Turlough in nearly four decades since his last outing in the 1984 episode “The Caves of Androzani.” The short film, which is included with the Blu-ray release of Doctor Who season 21, features Peter Davison as the Fifth Doctor and Janet Fielding as Tegan, as they confront Daleks in London.

The film reveals that Turlough’s home planet of Trion is under attack, prompting him to send a message requesting the Doctor’s assistance. This storyline not only reconnects fans with Turlough but also hints at a larger narrative that could unfold in future episodes or audio stories featuring the character.

Reviving Classic Characters in Doctor Who

Since the show’s inception in the 1960s, numerous actors have reprised their roles, particularly during significant anniversaries. Following the 60th anniversary celebrations, which saw the return of actors like David Tennant and Catherine Tate, the revival of Turlough is part of a broader trend of celebrating the show’s rich history. The recent short films produced for Doctor Who‘s The Collection Blu-ray series have provided fans with a chance to see classic characters in new adventures, maintaining the series’ legacy.

The latest installment showcases the chemistry between the Fifth Doctor and Tegan, who have previously appeared together in “The Power of the Doctor” and “Tales of the TARDIS.” The reunion with Turlough adds an emotional layer to the story, illustrating how past relationships continue to resonate within the Doctor Who universe.

The Future of The Collection Shorts

The short film attached to Doctor Who season 21 follows a successful precedent set by the previous season’s short, “The Final Battle,” which featured Leela on Gallifrey and was praised for its production quality. However, producer Pete McTighe announced that the series would be “rested” for future releases, leading to speculation about the future of these beloved short films.

The return of Davison, Fielding, and Strickson suggests that the hiatus may be coming to an end. The new short film, while more modest in scale compared to “The Final Battle,” successfully captures the charm that fans have come to expect. With the main series not set to return until December 2024, these short films could provide fans with engaging content in the interim.

As Doctor Who continues to evolve, the inclusion of classic companions like Turlough enriches the narrative and keeps the spirit of the show alive. Fans eagerly await to see how Turlough’s peril and the fate of Trion will unfold, whether in future short films or audio adventures.