
Fifty years ago today, the first episode of Doctor Who appeared on the BBC. In 1963, four million viewers witnessed the birth of what would become one of the longest and most beloved TV series of all time.
"An Unearthly Child" introduced William Hartnell as the First Doctor, his time traveling TARDIS, and his desire for companionship. Here is a paragraph from my upcoming book "The Unofficial Doctor Who Companion" to set the mood...
"The world was not a very happy or stable place in the autumn of 1963! Some thirteen months before, American President John Fitzgerald Kennedy stood up to the Soviet Union and Communism on the world stage during the Cuban Missile Crisis. During October of 1962, the Irish / Catholic president became a symbol of freedom by almost single handedly averted a world ending nuclear holocaust. Sadly President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas on the 22nd of November in 1963. Due to his immense popularity, charm and appeal, this tragic event had an impact felt all over the world, especially in the United Kingdom where JFK and his wife Jacqueline was a beloved figure. The following day television history was made in the UK, but not too many people felt like doing anything let alone watching the ‘telly’. Still, on Saturday, November 23rd at 5:15 PM, four million plus viewers got their introduction to the incredible and amazing world of Doctor Who."
So are you ready for the 50th Annaversary episode, "The Day Of The Doctor" that is happening tonight? It will air on BBC America in the states so check your guide for times and channel.
Get ready folks! It all changes after tonight!