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This British import was created by Sydney Newman and Donald Wilson in 1963 and was conceived as a science fiction-style children’s show that would teach kids about science. Lo and behold, it became one of the most popular TV shows ever, developing a cult of adult fans who couldn’t get enough of its low-budget weirdness. 

 

The series was broadcast in America for the first time in 1978. It told the story of Dr. Who, a 750-year-old inhabitant of the planet Galifrey. He travels through time and space in the TARDIS, with a mission to explore the universe and help anyone who needs it. He was often at odds with the evil Daleks, a race of robots on wheels who are ruled by Davros. Plus, he’s often get in trouble with The Master and the other Time Lords, who turn their noses down on the doctor and his unique style.

 

Dr. Who wasn’t human, but he took human form in order to travel most comfortably with his human companions who came with him on his adventures. The first doctor was played by William Hartnell, who was followed by seven additional actors who played the part during its over thirty year run, making it the longest running sci-fi show on television.

 

Each time a new actor took over the part, the story explained that he “regenerated,” but he always retained his brilliance, arrogance, and overwhelming curiosity  about the universe. His large collection of gadgets often handily got him out of several jams.

 

The fun, low budget special effects, creepy music, interesting narratives, and edge-of-your-seat cliffhangers made people fans for life. Television movies, paperback books, and fan websites where people can endlessly argue which actor made the BEST Doctor Who continue to proliferate.