Actress Millie Gibson has expressed her thoughts on the renewed storyline of the “Doctor Who” series, encouraging fans to overlook its apparent LGBT themes and simply enjoy the show.
In a recent interview, Gibson, also known as Aimlia Eve Gibson, stated that the backlash regarding the show’s explicit and liberal narrative doesn’t concern her. The series has leaned towards progressive politics since the reboot’s onset, introducing Ncuti Gatwa as the new “Queer Black” lead. Writer and executive producer Russell T. Davies noted he has explored casting non-binary actors for the role of Reid.
After Standard’s Martin Robinson characterized the series as a critique of societal fascism, he questioned Gibson about fan reactions to its unusual direction, particularly the inclusion of drag queen and gay dance sequences.
“I just watch the show for what it is,” Gibson remarked, reminiscing about an episode where David Tennant returned alongside Martha and they meet Shakespeare, leading to comments about Shakespeare’s attractiveness. “What more can you really do?” she added.
Gibson justified the narrative and its criticisms as reflections of “how the world is,” suggesting that the show has unique and meaningful content. “It’s beautiful; it’s about two best friends traveling through space. So, give it a shot!” the 20-year-old actress exclaimed.
She also praised the drag queen Jinkx Monsoon, identifying as her biggest fan and asserting that she sees no issue with male entertainers portraying female characters.
Gibson’s comments hint at a divergence between her views and those of her co-stars, especially amid recent challenges regarding the show’s ratings in light of its political themes.
Meanwhile, following critiques of lines from Gatwa’s character, such as “I had a long, hot summer with Harry Houdini,” the actor advised detractors to simply stop watching. “If you’re not on board, turn off the TV. Go outside. Engage with the world,” Gatwa suggested, emphasizing the joy and community present even when discussing challenging issues surrounding queer rights.
In seeking to make the series more inclusive, executive producer Davies openly advocated for educating children about transgender topics early on. He mentioned that “visibility” could help reduce prejudice, believing that understanding such subjects from a young age fosters acceptance.
Davis argued that homophobia and transphobia often arise from a lack of exposure to diverse identities. In a separate account, English-language reporter Lewis Blackpool pointed out the influence of government involvement in British television, suggesting specific narratives are being promoted that resonate with public health and social issues.
Blackpool noted consumers ultimately have the right to disengage from narratives that feel politically forced, adding that there’s often negative feedback when beloved shows take on controversial themes.
