Companion Support Group | The Power of the Doctor | Doctor Who

[@forbezfilms6501]

The only one missing is Sarah Jane. Forever in our hearts *Elisabeth Sladen*

[@zachgreenninja3885]

Never forgotten

[@icantthinkofagoodusername4575]

She would have had a bigger role in the episode not just a cameo at a meeting

[@aresef]

I feel like the empty chair was for her and all the other companion actors no longer with us, like Jacqueline Ford and Michael Craze and Nicholas Courtney (he counts), not to mention the companions who are dead in-universe, like the Ponds, River and Adric.

[@HopeAuq]

@@obiwankenobi687 It was Anneke Wills (Polly) who pulled out last minute. But I love the idea that the chair is left empty to represent everyone who can't be there like the above reply said

[@dancingmonkey08]

@@aresef dont forget Deborah Watling's Victoria

[@paulh4473]

The fact William came back and did this despite having dementia, what a legend.

[@BerzerkVideos]

Which one's William? EDIT: Ahhh, William Russell! Yeah, he did surprisingly well for having Dementia! He held it solid!

[@steveandjeanniefrith236]

He has dementia!? I did not know! Oh wow. Oh dear. Prayers for him.

[@LissaLori]

@@BerzerkVideos Well people with dementia do have moments of clarity.

[@cunningsmile4166]

"Doctor who? Oh William. What nice fellow"

[@peterwilliamskelhorn6675]

@@BerzerkVideos who played Ian Chesterton

[@tidalblue2739]

Thanks to this scene, William Russell now has the Guinness World Record for the longest time between a first and last appearance as Ian Chesterton (57 years 120 days) Wow: Over 2K likes?! Thank you

[@hgwells1899]

I'm hoping Carole Ann Ford gets to top that record one day! Yes, it's way passed time Susan got to come back

[@TempoKong]

@@hgwells1899 The Five Doctors is more recent than The Chase tho

[@DrWhoFanJ]

@@hgwells1899 She might find it difficult since she’d have to wait until 25 March 2041 to achieve that! (She was in _The Five Doctors_ in 1983.)

[@hgwells1899]

@@DrWhoFanJ between first and last was the op. Besides, 5 Doctors? Not really the send off she deserves

[@DrWhoFanJ]

@@hgwells1899 Yes, but that wasn’t what the record actually was, though; it was longest gap between **consecutive** appearances of a character in a TV show, not their first and their last (otherwise the Doctor themself would be beating that every single episode! 🤣).

[@benwasserman8223]

So touched to see Ian Chesterton back after all this time. If he thought adventures with Hartnell’s Doctor were weird, imagine what he’ll think of everybody else’s stories.

[@dommoore6180]

Well if he's comparing to Jo, Tegan, Yaz, Graham, Dan, Mel and Kate he's got weirder. The only one there who has significantly stranger adventures is Ace and tbh she has a completely different relationship to both the Doctor and her adventures than the rest there do anyway. In general I'd argue that 60s Who was stranger than anything in New Who or 70s Who.

[@katiemartin6991]

It's especially funny given that he, Barbara, and Susan were the OGs. I can picture someone mentioning the Doctor being "against violence" and then Ian gets flashbacks to the First Doctor trying to bash someone's head in with a rock on their first adventure.

[@dommoore6180]

@@katiemartin6991 haha yeah though in fairness the doctor being super against violence was a developing thing really up until the 7th doctor.

[@gohanmoreno7]

@@katiemartin6991 its like that friend from highschool that somehow now everybody thinks that he is a role model, but you knew him in his early days and he was a dangerous criminal kid 🤣🤣🤣

[@andrewwebb3431]

@@katiemartin6991 I think he'd be absolutely gobsmacked to hear how the Doctor's character has evolved from the crotchety old man he met in a junkyard that was quite happy to leave a man to die just so they could escape the cavemen. He started to see a little bit more of the Doctor we've got used to but when he and Barbara left it was very much still a work in progress.

[@shaunhickland3440]

R. I. P. William Russell. What a legend. So glad we have this scene now. What a fitting final scene for him to end on.

[@TheSkullivan12]

Seeing all the old companions again was wonderful, but it really hammers home how much of a raw deal most of the modern companions got. Rose trapped in a parallel universe, Martha and Mickey off fighting aliens, Donna had her memory wiped, Amy and Rory trapped in the past, Clara and Bill basically losing their humanity and left to wander the universe, and Nardole left to defend against a Cyberman invasion. Say whatever else you like about the last few series, but I’m really glad all of Thirteen’s companions had a chance to go back to a normal life.

[@Anonymous-lc2sj]

What about Adric? Spare a good thought for the singular companion to get a silent tribute during his final episode's credits...

[@MJG206]

Donna is coming back tho. So maybe we get a better ending.

[@RCorvinus]

Rose’s parallel universe is a positive, mate. She has a better version of her father, with him reunited with her mom. She is with a version of the Doctor she can be with. I’d not call that a raw deal. Amy and Rory are together, so they’ll live their best lives together, wherever they are. So not all got raw deals.

[@Ugowish]

Honestly I like a happy ending, it’s sad, but it’s also happy

[@NileSWPhotography]

@@RCorvinusgoing from 21st century modern life to 1930s life must be a bit mad tho 😂 my iPhone won’t work anymore 😂🤣

[@cunningsmile4166]

"You act like such a lonely person. But you got the biggest family on earth." - Sarah Jane

[@TheTomLees]

I quite enjoyed it when Ian asked Dan, "Did you say 'her'?" - it's a very small interaction but when you consider how Ian knew the First Doctor who's allegedly the youngest, and the Thirteenth Doctor who was the oldest, there's such magnitude behind it.

[@cunningsmile4166]

Reminded of DiZ talking to Namine. "She?"

[@mirage809]

This whole scene was such a fun one. It was great fan service to see a bunch of companions again, but the real fun part of this is what it implies. The Doctor regularly says that they never forget any of their companions and this is the companions never forgetting The Doctor. And this is a neat thing for the future. No matter how many more companions The Doctor has and no matter where they end up going, there will be a place where they can keep meeting up and sharing the stories of their adventures. Also, I'd love to imagine Jack Harkness showing up to one of these, shocking everyone by going: "And then I died." only to follow it up with "I got better though."

[@juango500]

yeah although I think jack turned into t h e h e a d

[@raf7550]

*Jack:* "And then I died. I got better though." *Rory:* "Amateur."

[@cunningsmile4166]

@@raf7550 Jack: I died over 2000 times before 2008. What about YOU?

[@eastmeetswestpresents6923]

Bigger shock if River turned up and River proclaims that she is the Doctor's wife

[@jeffdunne1299]

To see William Russell returning as Ian after 56 years it must be one for the Guinness book of records. Absolute joy to see him

[@stephenmurphy2212]

*57 years

[@Simpson17866]

It is literally a Guinness world record :)

[@Joemama55122]

It is the record haha

[@jamiestevens3074]

It’s comforting to know the companions can now meet up and basically have a therapy session without feeling crazy or weird. Although K9 would’ve been a great addition

[@ironicanimations]

Yessss

[@OneTrueVikingbard]

@@ironicanimations I think you mean “Affirmative”

[@joshuaplotkin8826]

Where are mickey and martha? And Jenny?

[@kurtsnyder4752]

Which one, the one with Romana, with Sarah Jane, or the one off on his own?

[@dancingmonkey08]

@@joshuaplotkin8826 why would Jenny be there, she was living in the future, and didnt have a time machine Maybe Freema wasnt available for filming (although I really hope she comes back for a future School Reunion-style episode with Ruby the less said about Noel Clarke, the better I was disappointed that Polly didnt turn up, but the actress didnt want to take part for such a short scene

[@luciferkotsutempchannel]

I actually kind of want to see an entire episode where it’s just this companion support session. Watching them discuss their adventures together sounds like a lovely time.

[@luciferkotsutempchannel]

Also, we need more lines for Ian, if his actor is able and willing.

[@daeseongkim93]

he has dementia so it was quite hard enough for him to muster since he did have a breakdown of confusion while there and the others tried to comfort him :'(@@luciferkotsutempchannel

[@DoctorJjay]

may not be as what you think or expect it to be, but i'm happy to share Tales of the Tardis provides some sort of the feeling you'd wanna see with past companions interacting in the whoniverse Had a bit of fun watching them, I hope you'd find it cool too

[@justinharvey7398]

Be careful what you wish for. They did before (kind of). **shudders** Love and Monsters, eugh

[@Justin-cw7rg]

Old comment I know, but it would be interesting to see a group of old companions react to an alien threat. It would be cool to see a bunch of strangers successfully handle an alien incursion together just from their interactions with the Doctor.

[@TheYoxiz]

Chibnall's run had its flaws, but the concept for this scene is genius and I'd love to see it more. Companions Anonymous!

[@Siegfried5846]

It's horrible. And Chibnall is horrible. The Doctor is a White man. Anything else is White erasure and antiwhitism.

[@ladela7348]

It could be a good way of telling stories that we never actually saw on screen, via books/audio/short web stories.

[@tonoornottono]

it’s also kind of sad that the doctor can’t help but traumatize and dissociate every companion she has from the human community. it’s one of the darkest aspects of the doctor, that if you get too close you’ll be burned.

[@MrEmpireBuilder0000]

Indeed. She looked perfect as the Doctor. Many just wish she was given a better script, overall.

[@lcraig]

It wasn't his concept, the companion support group was done in a comic/audio adventure or something before Chibnall decided to borrow the idea and include it in a TV episode

[@wstine79]

Kate Stewart and Mel Bush were fantastic. Ian Chesterson's "Sorry, did you say 'Her?" reaction is on par with what William Hartnell would say.

[@sopcannon]

One day I will come back......

[@Yesica1993]

Exactly what anyone should say, since the Doctor is, was, and always will be A MAN. Even in scifi, men and women are NOT interchangeable!

[@shadepizza4217]

@@Yesica1993 literally not a human bo okay?

[@bebjobel]

@@Yesica1993 Sir this is Wendy's.

[@BaronMartin]

@@Yesica1993 Bro, stop being stuck 100 years ago...

[@hiccuphufflepuff176]

I don't know why, but I initially though Ian was Jamie, the second Doctor's young Scottish companion. It never even dawned on me that one of the teachers who accompanied Susan in the very first episode might still be around in 2022. William Russell is 98 and still taking acting jobs in film, tv, and audio dramas. That's amazing. He was born the same year as my grandmother. She made it to 95.

[@karencarter18042]

Jamie would be very old now he was returned to the 18th century where he was from after The War Games

[@mrcritical6751]

@@karencarter18042 and had his memory wiped

[@jb888888888]

@@karencarter18042 Jamie could pop-in during "Series 6b"/"The Two Doctors" era.

[@karencarter18042]

@@jb888888888 Are you talking about the story from Colin Baker's times as the Doctor? Cause we only got one story (the Five Doctors) with a (replacement actor) Doctor who came with their companion. Are you thinking Reece Shearsmith should play the second doctor since David Bradley is playing the first?

[@jb888888888]

@@karencarter18042 Yes exactly. "The Two Doctors," where Jamie and the Doctor were roaming around the universe working on behalf of the Time Lords. I wasn't discussing the Doc at all, we're talking about companions here. I don't think the Doctor showing up at a Companions support group would be appropriate. That's like going to an AA meeting and bringing your bartender.

[@LPJack02]

RIP the former companions of Doctor Who William Russell (November 19, 1924 - June 3, 2024), aged 99 Gerald Flood (April 21, 1927 - April 12, 1989), aged 61 Bernard Cribbins (December 29, 1928 - July 27, 2022), aged 93 Nicholas Courtney (December 16, 1929 - February 22, 2011), aged 81 Jacqueline Hill (December 17, 1929 - February 18, 1993), aged 63 David Brierly (January 1, 1935 -June 10, 2008), aged 73 Richard Franklin (January 15, 1936 - December 24, 2023), aged 87 Adrienne Hill (July 22, 1937 - October 6, 1997), aged 60 Caroline John (September 19, 1940 - June 5, 2012), aged 71 Jackie Lane (July 10, 1941 - June 23, 2021), aged 79 Michael Craze (November 29, 1942 - December 8, 1998), aged 56 Hamish Wilson (December 13, 1942 - March 26, 2020), aged 77 Ian Marter (October 28, 1944 - October 28, 1986), aged 42 Elisabeth Sladen (February 1, 1946 - April 19, 2011), aged 65 Deborah Watling (January 2, 1948 - July 21, 2017), aged 69 Mary Tamm (March 22, 1950 - July 26, 2012), aged 62 You will be remembered as legends.

[@thecyborgrhino]

Thank you Chris Chibnall for giving William Russell one final appearance in the show. And what an appearance it was!

[@jellybabiesarecool4657]

This scene is a great tribute to the show. Seeing Ian back in particular is a treat. Broke the world record for longest gap between appearances of a character in a TV show.

[@RobinGorbie]

Wait really? That’s actually amazing. Considering it’s nearly 60 years, and what the lifespan of a human being is, that might not be broken for a long while. Also creates a good little trivia question that will perplex some people

[@cunningsmile4166]

Is Susan actress dead??

[@jellybabiesarecool4657]

@@cunningsmile4166 nope she's still alive and I hope she's in in the 60th though she can't break the record because she last appeared in 1983 in The Five Doctors.

[@cunningsmile4166]

@@jellybabiesarecool4657 never mind. Susan isn't in this timeline anymore. She's in the alternative future

[@767wattsy]

Had to come back and rewatch this scene after the sad news about William Russell. I'm so glad that Chris Chibnall gave us this scene - it meant a lot at the time and it means even more today.

[@friendlyotaku9525]

I'll forever be grateful to Chibnall for bringing him back and letting us see Ian one last time, it's really something special!

[@Scrummy64]

Ngl I thought this scene was a genuinely really nice touch from Chibnall; the notion of former companions being "left behind" is something that the show's touched upon a handful of times before so it was sweet to see his last episode make a meaningful contribution to that concept that also acts as a kind of resolution

[@NiennaFan1]

That and the Doctor being honest about her feelings and not leaving her companion who's in love with her hanging!

[@farmbrough]

I love the way Ian raises his eyebrows when he says the word "her". Not just an old actor saying a line, but a good performance from William Russell.

[@MatthewCYN15]

Course I was gassed to have Tegan and Ace back. Graham was a happy surprise. Kate Stewart entering the TARDIS for the very first time was touching. But this. This touched me. Jo Grant, Mel Bush (who is coming back for Series 14!!!!) and FLIPPIN IAN CHESTERTON? The companions are such treasures.

[@MushroomHaterProductions]

The companion gathering was a real nostalgic surprise. It warmed my heart to see Jo and Mel turn up for a brief cameo, plus one of the very first companions... Ian Chesterton. Very well done.

[@MephProduction]

pity they don't explain how Mel got to present day earth

[@Clonest]

@@MephProduction That's what i'm saying! it's not like it''s first time learning about regeneration either. That's Chibnall's writing for you.

[@mrcritical6751]

@@Clonest I think in Mel’s case that was more her responding to him changing again and no longer being the person she knew. We’ve seen similar reactions in the past like when Jo met 11 and was surprised he could regenerate into somebody that young

[@itsandre4594]

No matter how many times I see this scene, it always gives me goosebumps. Katy Manning’s laughter gave it away that she was there. And this scene made William Russell break a Guiness World Record! I recently found out that he has dementia and apparently, he had a moment of confusion during filming and John Bishop helped him calm down. I wasn’t expecting to see Mel, but it was a brilliant surprise! Knowing that Jodie took advantage of not having to film anything to go there and meet the Companions is brilliant ❤️ A truly heartwarming scene, yet bittersweet. This was my favorite regeneration and this is one of my favorite scenes EVER! I hope Big Finish revamp the Companion Chronicles and have it being the companions telling eachother stories about their Doctors 🙌❤️

[@ashleytuchin7693]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who recognised Katy's laugh.

[@tomtinley3262]

That story about John bishop is really sweet

[@Crybabycat72]

Oh, I'm sorry to hear William Russell has dementia; Ian was always one of my favourite companions. I'm glad John Bishop was able to help him. William Russell is 98, I believe. Would be great if they could have him on again when he's 100 - provided his health is all right - and have whoever is the Doctor actually meet him again and recognize him.

[@Croftice1]

@@Crybabycat72 That would be 15th Doctor Ncuti Gatwa. 14th only stays for 3 specials, then it's 15th's time. And each Doctor has traditionally 3 series, the only exception is Christopher Eccleston, who had only one, David, who had few specials at the end of his run and Jodie, with the Covid prolonging her series for a year, though there wasn't much going on, so she also got 3 series in fact. That means most likely, that Ncuti will be in his 2nd series, when William will celebrate 100.

[@davidcrazyrides]

I guess the rumor isn't true Ian and Barbra aged after all

[@oisinoreilly5307]

The scene that broke me upon seeing an old friend in 2022. Now my hearts have broken again today. RIP William Russell and thank you for helping shape me into the person I am today. Goodnight, Mr. Chesterton

[@swiftbird4846]

The return of William Russell as Ian is such a treat. This would make a great series.

[@SuperYouFox]

RIP William Russell. Thank you for coming back for this moment. Forever our Ian Chesterton.

[@mecchabaron64]

RIP William Russell. Your legacy on this show will live on forever

[@magpieone9390]

Rip William Russell.Thank you for inspiring all companions after you

[@pizzannn]

god this is such a good leadup to the regeneration scene. the score really makes me tear up

[@friendlyotaku9525]

Right?! Segun Akinola does not get the credit he deserves

[@scottchristofersen2367]

I’ve grown up watching the doctor and seeing the companions old like me after 45 plus years of wild tv and book adventures… well… this shook me to the core.

[@unknownlight927]

Seeing Jo Grant among the group, all smiley and positive makes me very happy, especially after listening to a recent War Master Big Finish series...

[@AndrewChapman]

Glad she got to be in the War Master Big Finish audios as she was the first televised companion to meet the Master.

[@Prince__Teclis]

Can you imagine Jo learning about all the things the Master has been up to?

[@PhoebeClothier]

we need this concept to return! main show and any spinoffs! plus Kate recruiting companions as freelancers for unit? YES PLEASE ❤

[@itsandre4594]

There’s a Big Finish box set of audio adventures with Jo, Mike Yates and John Benton with Kate and modern day UNIT versus the Silurians and the Sea Devils!

[@MrThorfan64]

@@itsandre4594 Suitably there was a comic where Sea Devils are Tories.

[@NicoUnken]

A FANTASTIC idea. A therapy group session or even just a social club... It'd be very healthy for the companions to have this option. Plus, cameo's ahoy!!!!

[@kurtsnyder4752]

As long as a certain tin can bunch don't show up.

[@stephenmurphy2212]

I actually dreamt of this idea. 😂

[@retnavybrat]

@@kurtsnyder4752 Who are?

[@jamesmontgomery7074]

This show has definitely been running long enough to warrant a re-cap episode.

[@JnEricsonx]

@@retnavybrat Daleks, Cybermen, take your pick?

[@seantressel1754]

RIP Ian Chesterton and William Russell (1924-2024), he was 99 years old... Thank you, Ian... "Just go forward in all your beliefs, and prove to me, that I am not mistaken in mine..."

[@oldoldmeme]

Is this blatant fan pandering? Yeah. But seeing William Russel finally return to the show as Ian is one piece of nostalgia bait that I will gladly latch onto, I had the biggest smile on my face when I saw him pop up on screen.

[@TempoKong]

To be fair, even if it is fanservice, it works for the general theme of the story

[@tokublwhovian]

As it was for the BBC’s 100th, it gets a pass. All the anniversary stories are fan pandering/fan service.

[@TheGeorgeD13]

It thematically fits. This is “ The Power of the Doctor”. The friends they make along the way.

[@TempoKong]

@@TheGeorgeD13 and more specifically, it is a story about passing of the torch

[@friendlyotaku9525]

And it services the story, this episode handles fan service really well! From giving Ace and Tegan closure, to the themes, the Doctor bringing people together - that's the Power of the Doctor!

[@Richardb91979]

R.I.P William Russell, just read that Russell T Davies has paid tribute to William, who died on the 3rd. 😢❤

[@TonksMoriarty]

I was looking for something to watch during my morning exercise routine on the stationary bike, and decided back in June that the next series I'd be watching is Doctor Who from "An Unearthly Child" all the way through - every complete story. I had said goodbye to Ian & Barbara around mid-August & loved them to bits! So, when this scene came up I was like "OMG, IT'S IAN!". I definitely cried tears of joy seeing him back just for this one scene.

[@EthelKat73]

I’m doing the same thing! I’m hoping to watch every complete story from the classic and new show before the 60th anniversary. Still only I’m season 2, but working on it.

[@julieeverett7442]

@@EthelKat73 youve got about 100 of them from classic who, and about the same for new who. It will take you a while.I did a Dr Who marathon as I was very ill and stuck in bed . 8 hours a day, 7 days a week, it took me 34 days. Thats dr who AND torchwood, AND sarah jane. Just a warning, do NOT try to watch/listen to Daleks Masterplan in one hit. The little bugger is 5.5 HOURS long! Drove me nuts. Have fun, youre in for one doozy of a ride!!!

[@rowanc88]

Heartbreaking that this'll probably very likely be the final time we see Ian Chesterton.

[@yehiahuzayyin7972]

He does a good bit of Big Finish, actually.

[@rowanc88]

@@yehiahuzayyin7972 He has done, but taking into account what we now know, it's unlikely they'll be any further ones.

[@friendlyotaku9525]

Yeah but what a lovely thing to see him again one last time before it's too late, I heard he has dementia which is really heartbreaking...

[@rowanc88]

@@friendlyotaku9525 😢

[@yehiahuzayyin7972]

@Rowan Crump God bless him for what he's done for the show. He helped shape 3 whole generations, and hopefully a thousand more. To quote the Eleventh Doctor, "At some point in their lives people are going to look back at this man taking that first step and they will never forget it."

[@ChristinaMoore79]

I was so frickin' chuffed when I saw Ian there. RIP William Russell, Guiness World Record holder for the longest time between appearances for a TV character.

[@JamesFrench96]

RIP William Russell. It was a delight to see you back in our favourite show for one final time ❤

[@gohanmoreno7]

The idea of a group of old companion sharing stories is the absolute best, i loved it! Specially that Ian is in it 🥰🥰🥰

[@austinpatterson9062]

I just love so much the idea of Ian talking about Vortis, Jo talking about Peladon, Mel talking about Lakertya, Tegan talking about Logopolis, Ace talking about Fenric and Yaz talking about Rosa and all of these character getting to laugh and finally talk about these things they’ve been hiding for so long with people who understand it makes me smile so much

[@linkjourney422]

RIP William Russell. You were one of the first companions to set foot in the Tardis in 1963 and your legacy will remain

[@swiftbird4846]

Rest in peace William Russell, our Ian Chesterton. What a great moment.

[@jeffstone2136]

RIP William Russell. Wonderful that Ian was able to return, after so many years.

[@usmanchughtai1751]

R.i.p William Russell. Thank you for the memories

[@ironicanimations]

I love this super much, this is such a great opposite side for being a companion People talk about how companions die and it is true and tragic, but now we have a positive way to show companions

[@MrThorfan64]

Preferable to the EU which seemed determined to give companions miserable fates.

[@oliviawalker2352]

@@MrThorfan64 it took me a few seconds to realise you meant the expanded universe and was sat here wondering how brexit was giving the companions miserable fates 😂

[@MrThorfan64]

@@oliviawalker2352 Yeh I admit that's an easy mistake to make. I suppose Brexit got UNIT defunded.

[@julieeverett7442]

and theres still quite a few missing, some of the 3rd doctors UNIT freinds are still with us

[@alois_gh]

This is more than companions talking about the Doctor, it's the actors who meet and talk about the show which made their career and has been an important part of their lives, decades for some of them. I love it !!! This episode was amazing and a great end for this fantastic era ♥️♥️

[@timrob12]

I feel this concept could return every now and then as a way to bring back/introduce old companions.

[@TrentonBlessWrestlemania489]

I've always wanted a scene like this. With as many of the Doctor's friends as possible. This scene warmed my heart.

[@duttondomain5439]

Absolutely loved this scene was brilliant seeing companions from the years have a reunion and seeing Ian Chesterton back after all these years warms my heart 😍😍😍😍

[@craigdonald6603]

0:47 and Kate hires Mel to join her in UNIT. Such a nice comeback

[@u.k.trainandbusvids]

I cried at this scene seeing so many companions come back William Russell is from my neck of the woods he was born in Sunderland

[@DarthQamrak]

So happy to see Ian return one last time, he was an amazing companion, only ones missing is susan and sarah jane 😢

[@soundgal_sine_qua_non]

Coming back here after hearing of William Russell's death. I am so glad we got to see him as Ian Chesterton one last time in this scene.

[@wanderingshadow1372]

This scene is still wonderful regardless, but I really wish Martha Jones showed up too. Before this episode, I always had this headcanon where former companions meet up and talk about their adventures with the Doctor and show souvenirs from their adventures over tea and biscuits, and Martha was the one who set the whole thing up in my headcanon.

[@marcoschoenteich7957]

And Jack Harkness. He was one of the First companions of the Doctor in the New Who Show. And i love this guy.😂❤👍🏻 I hope for a Jack Harkness comeback in the new Seasons with Ncuti's 15th Doctor.

[@persialionheart]

And obviously Mickey too. Now I'm just thinking about how most of the companions for 9-12 are gone in one way or another and its making me sad 😭 because I always thought it would be so great if they could come together and sit down and talk about their adventures but they never got the chance to.

[@NiennaFan1]

Kate will give Graham their contact info after the meeting!

[@Legendary3Dgamer]

I want this as a show where every episode is a different story from a different companion please RTD do this if u know what’s good for everyone 😊

[@yack916]

If you're fine with audio adventures, the Companion Chronicles from Big Finish could be what you're looking for 😁

[@fgameshunter1782]

Ryan and Susan and other from the 10th doctor should of been there.

[@Nyzackon]

@@fgameshunter1782 Susan's not really in this century.

[@fgameshunter1782]

@@Nyzackon I now but it doesn't matter a lot of people wood like to see the doctors grandouter to return for a final relief as the ferst doctor said he would return.

[@tomboychick]

That's got Big Finish written all over it. Or maybe a compilation novel of stories that seem to be released in the autumn (for a stocking filler idea, presumably).

[@adammarrs9266]

Rest In Peace William Russell, what a sweet moment it was to see him come back to play Ian Chesterton one last time. Now there's only one member of the original TARDIS team remaining... 😔 💔

[@matt0044]

It’s a shame we didn’t have Ryan cameo at the end. Though the chair meant for Sarah was a touching tribute.

[@friendlyotaku9525]

Yeah Tosin has been very busy filming stuff in America which is why Ryan didn't appear

[@matt0044]

@@friendlyotaku9525 Hope his career's goes well.

[@friendlyotaku9525]

@@matt0044 he's doing pretty well for himself actually!

[@mcbd6970]

Knowing what happens to the 14th doctor, hearing the 13th say “Look after the next one” tugs at my heartstrings 😭

[@andrewwilliams9599]

Loved William Russell's line, "Excuse me. Did you say, her?"

[@eleanorburns8686]

I do love how Ace takes the Doctor's gender-switch completely in her stride - a fitting reaction from the classic companion who best understood and even empathized with their alien-ness.

[@Saternalius]

I love how you can hear Katy Manning chuckling away throughout this whole scene. God bless her.

[@alasdairdevine983]

RIP William Russell, he will sorely be missed by the doctor who community ❤❤

[@Rogerramjet4321]

I could have watched an hour of their companion chat. What a wonderful scene.

[@carabinercara]

Segue Akinola’s score is masterful.

[@friendlyotaku9525]

It really is, he deserves way more credit than he gets!

[@mrcritical6751]

They made such a good call getting a nature documentary composer to do the music, it adds a level of grandiose and wonder

[@anima_96x7]

This was such a pleasant surprise when I first saw it as the episode aired and it definitely shows that Chibnail at least knew how to scratch that Classic Who itch. Seeing all of these quintessential companions together gave me goosebumps, and I also love how Ian’s remark about not knowing the Doctor’s gender at the time was a small but very impactful touch. It showed just how long it’s been since those early days he spent with Barbra, Susan, and Vicki alongside the First Doctor. A beautiful, and sentimental moment overall. 🥹

[@hazmat7949]

Rip to Ian aka William Russell. Not a willing original companion but always one of the best

[@friendlyotaku9525]

This has to be the most beautiful scene in all of Doctor Who, seeing the likes of Mel Bush, Jo Jones (nee Grant) AND the legend himself, Ian Chesterton - one of the FIRST companions in Doctor Who again brings a tear to my eye. A companion support group is such a brilliant idea too, I would genuinely watch a spin off where the companions just meet up and talk about the Doctor and their adventures and have a nice laugh and cuppa. Love it! That... is the Power of the Doctor!

[@owntmpsn]

I’m not gonna lie, but this scene brought me to tears

[@FilmandTVFan]

As amazing as the scene was, it’s really Ian Chesterton’s appearance that is the icing on the cake! 👏 0:38 I always wanted William Russell to make a cameo in the show before it was too late, and I’m so happy that he did! 😮 Genuinely, when I saw Ian in the scene for the first time, I absolutely lost it! 😭 I cried badly during this whole scene afterwards! For a fan of Classic Who to get a moment like this meant the world to me! There are plenty of emotional moments throughout the episode, but for me, nothing hit harder than this moment right here ❤

[@JNMorgen11]

William Russell made a cameo in "An Adventure in Space and Time (2013)." He played "Harry," a security guard at the BBC. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/An_Adventure_in_Space_and_Time

[@FilmandTVFan]

@@JNMorgen11 Yep, he did! But I wanted him to appear in the show as Ian before there wasn’t an option anymore! That’s what I’m thankful for! 👍

[@mikebasil4832]

R.I.P., William Russell. 💓

[@The-Cosmic-Hobo]

Oh Ian... William Russell... My heart is broken.

[@AndrewChapman]

"Sorry, did you say... 'her'?" Oh Ian, so much you and Barbara have missed out on since returning to LONDON 1965

[@thomasranc]

RIP William Russel and thank you 🤍

[@TheTomLees]

More of this is what Tales of the TARDIS should have been. Companions who are alive and well, old and new, getting together recalling their adventures with the Doctor. Instead of the tosh we got in the dream TARDIS.

[@soundgal_sine_qua_non]

This is the most brilliant thing to come out of the Chibnall era. It makes sense storywise that these people who had so much happen to them and then had it all stop would take relief and joy in sharing their experiences with others who have been in their shoes. Seeing past and current companions interact has been just as exciting for me as mulit-Doctor stories.

[@QuarrellaDeVil]

William Russell. They finally hit a home run into the right field lights at Tiger Stadium. As if we didn't get enough, it would have been interesting to see Frazer Hines or Wendy Padbury sitting there, to make us all say "Wait a second ..."

[@tigremalabarista3461]

Would’ve worked withJamie as the Doctor after “The Two Doctors.” Could’ve had him give some stories then. Rejoin the Doctor for their adventures before returned home to Scotland.

[@reachandler3655]

@@tigremalabarista3461 The Timelords wiped Jamie's memory of the Doctor... that's how the Doctor knew it wasn't really Jamie in The Five Doctors.

[@Yetaxa]

​@@reachandler3655 is also how we know that the second doctor in that story came from after the War Games, considering that he was forcefully regenerated almost immediately after

[@ДанилУсманов-й3к]

Good bye, William Russel. We gonna miss you. Rest in Peace.

[@BuhoLoco40]

Make THIS a series. Group session followed by a few members doing investigative work for UNIT.

[@ashleytuchin7693]

This was such a beautiful moment, it was wonderful seeing Ian, Jo and Mel back. I nearly teared up when I saw Ian.

[@bonnacon1610]

RIP, William Russell. An absolute Mensch.

[@f.scottwalters7349]

What a brilliant idea and a touching scene, and intermixing it with shots of the Doctor on the way to her regeneration is likewise inspired. And how wonderful to see Ian Chesterton again. Thank you, Mr. Chibnall.

[@f.scottwalters7349]

And the music is quite moving.

[@azurequincy]

RIP a moment for the Actress who plays Sarah Jane(Elisabeth Clara Heath-Sladen). She sadly passed away and was not in this meet-up she would have had just as many exciting stories was Ian and Jamie about the Dr. During his more Flamboyant days LOL!

[@heymistercarter.]

She probably would've been the one to bring them all together in the first place. At least that's how I imagine it happening.

[@johannahyde-parker8422]

Yeah same here

[@Mrs_Christa]

Not gonna lie, when they show them all, the tears started flowing!! Such a precious scene!!

[@Silverheart575]

I wanna see 14 show up to one of the meetings and just have a chat with his old companions.

[@shiroi201]

This must've been so special to them to come back after so many years! Especially for ace and teagan who got to play along their doctor once more!

[@Jowilliams1749]

This is the most beautiful iconic part in the special. Seeing all the Companions in the Doctor Who Series Coming together to talk about their journey w/The Doctor.

[@mohzayd1234]

He came back one last time.

[@dougsfilmtv9810]

I love the idea of a support group for the companions, and it was great to see Ian again for the first time in years.

[@Deanhughes5707]

After hearing the sad news about William Russell's passing.. I'm grateful that Chibnall had this scene. ❤ Rip William Russell ❤ loved him and Barbara.

[@siblinginchrist]

it's so good to see the previous companions being brought back!

[@GuardianKyle]

"Sorry, did you say her?" Bless William's heart, it's sad to see one of my favorite Companion's suffering from Dementia.

[@itsbobcat]

Rest in peace william 🕊️

[@supernolofanpennylane3401]

Can you imagine now that Donnas got her memories and the doctors split having another scene with them going to the group ? Mel or Kate have to of told Donna now that shes got her memories

[@DaegunKnight]

Totally blew me away seeing William Russell back as Ian. Definitely shows how long this show's been going

[@Jayforeman3047]

This is such a beautiful piece of television.

[@Frevoli]

Guess Kate wasn't lying - considering she does recruit Mel and then later Donna

[@iwanevans1404]

RIP William Russell 1924-2024 🕊️🕊️🕊️

[@KeizerHedorah]

Sir Ian Chesterton was not only the first, he was one of the best🤘