On this day 49 years ago, the Doctor, as portrayed by William Hartnell, first appeared on TV screens across the UK. 10 regenerations, almost half of century and nearly 800 episodes later and Doctor Who remains the longest running and most successful sci-fi TV show in the world!
It’s time to bring on the birthday cake because Doctor Who is 49 today!
As the BBC says on Happy Anniversary post:
On this day in 1963 the BBC broadcast that thrilling and otherworldly theme music for the first time and viewers were introduced to the Doctor and his incredible TARDIS. At the close of the episode his time machine left present day Earth far behind and began a journey, a journey that introduced the world to Daleks, Cybermen, Time Lords and the idea that bow ties really are cool. It’s a journey that still goes on today and continues this Christmas with The Snowmen…
Let me say one more time: happy anniversary, Doctor! Let’s enjoy at least 50 more years of Doctor’s adventures!