The third season of Doctor Who (1965-1966) holds a unique distinction in the show’s history. Here’s what you can expect:

The Longest Season: Brace yourself, Season 3 is the longest season of Doctor Who ever produced, with a whopping 45 episodes spread across 10 serials! Unfortunately, only a fraction of these episodes survive in the BBC archives, with the rest being lost.

Introducing New Companions:

• Saying Goodbye to Dodo: Season 3 begins with the departure of companion Dodo Chaplet.
• Welcome Vicki and Bennett: The Doctor gains new companions, Vicki (Maureen O’Brien) and Steven Taylor (Peter Purves).

A Mix of Genres and Settings:

• Historical Adventures Return: While Season 2 ventured beyond historical settings, expect a return to encounters with figures from the past like Marco Polo and the Aztec civilization (though most of these serials are lost).
• Science Fiction Stories: The season also features classic sci-fi serials like “The Cybermen,” introducing another iconic enemy of the Doctor.
• Daleks Resurface (Again!): The Doctor’s nemesis, the Daleks, continue to plague the universe in some of the surviving serials.

Exploring the Doctor’s Character:

• The Second Doctor’s Growth: This season allows you to witness Patrick Troughton further develop the Second Doctor’s personality, showcasing his intelligence, resourcefulness, and occasional grumpiness.
• The Doctor’s Morality: Some serials explore the Doctor’s moral compass, forcing him to make difficult choices in challenging situations.

A Look Back with Limitations:

• Missing Episodes: As mentioned earlier, a large portion of Season 3 is lost. While reconstructions and animated versions exist for some serials, be prepared for incomplete stories and a different viewing experience compared to later seasons.
• Historical Context: Approaching Season 3 with an appreciation for historical television standards is helpful. The special effects and production values might seem dated by today’s standards.

Why You Might Like Doctor Who (Season 3):

• Classic Doctor Who Experience: For die-hard fans, Season 3 offers a chance to delve deeper into the Second Doctor’s era, despite the missing episodes.
• Introduction of Iconic Enemies: Witness the introduction of the Cybermen, expanding the Doctor’s rogue’s gallery.
• Character Development: See the Doctor’s character evolve further through his interactions with new companions and challenging situations.