A New Production Team and Focus:

• Changing of the Guard: Season 8 marks the arrival of a new producer, Barry Letts, who shapes the direction of the series for several seasons.
• Focus on Earth: This season features a shift towards more Earth-bound stories, with the Doctor facing contemporary threats and mysteries.
• The Master’s Return: The Doctor’s archenemy, the Master (played by Roger Delgado), makes a triumphant return after a brief absence.

Introducing the Autons and the Keller Machine:

• New Classic Monsters: Season 8 introduces the iconic Autons, emotionless plastic mannequins controlled by the Master, becoming recurring foes in the series.
• A Moral Dilemma: The season also features the Keller Machine, a device that appears to rehabilitate criminals but actually kills them, posing an ethical challenge for the Doctor.

Companion Lineup Changes:

• Jo Grant Departs: Season 8 sees the departure of companion Jo Grant, a fan favorite from the previous season.
• New Companions Arrive: The Doctor gains new companions, Liz Shaw (Caroline John), a UNIT scientist, and the Brigadier’s daughter, Sarah Jane Smith (Elisabeth Sladen). Sarah Jane would become a beloved companion, returning throughout the classic series and even appearing in the revived series.

The Third Doctor’s Era Continues:

• Action Hero Doctor: Season 8 showcases the Third Doctor’s action-oriented personality and his reliance on gadgets and scientific solutions.
• Working with UNIT: The Doctor continues his close collaboration with UNIT, working alongside the Brigadier to combat threats.

Classic Doctor Who Considerations:

• Limited Streaming Options: Due to licensing rights, Season 8 might be harder to find on streaming services compared to recent seasons.
• Historical Context: This was the early 1970s! The special effects and production values might seem dated by today’s standards.

Why You Might Like Doctor Who (Classic Series Season 8):

• The Master Returns: Witness the Doctor’s arch-enemy, the Master, in a thrilling season-long arc.
• Introduction of Iconic Monsters: See the introduction of the Autons, who would become recurring foes in Doctor Who lore.
• Arrival of Sarah Jane Smith: Experience the debut of Sarah Jane Smith, a beloved companion who would have a lasting impact on the series.