Whoniversity returns! For longtime readers of the site, you’ll know that we previously ran a series called ‘Whoniversity,’ which was a look at all things Doctor Who-related. Well, that column is set to return later this month from Multiversity staffers Kate Kosturski and Richard Pennifold! To kick things off, we’ve got a quick Q&A with current “Doctor Who: The Thirteenth Doctor” scribe Jody Houser, done by our own Matthew Ledger and Daniel Balyeat, and featuring an exclusive page from the fourth issue of the series, which drops today. Check out the preview of the issue at CBR, and check back later this month for the first proper installment of Whoniversity, Season 2.
Written by Jody HouserCover by Giorgia Sposito
Illustrated by Rachel Stott
Colored by Enrica Eren Angiolini and Viviana Spinelli
Lettered by Sarah Jacobs and John RoshellTime-twisting finale to the debut arc of the Doctor’s new comic from Jody Houser!
So of course, we have to start with the obligatory lead-in question: Are you big Doctor Who fans? If so, what drew you to the franchise, and what’s the “hook” that excites you about the Doctor?
Jody Houser: I first saw the Eighth Doctor movie in the 90s on TV, then fell in love with New Who when it started airing in the US. I love the adventure and hope of the series, that there’s always something new and exciting around the corner, and that a mad alien in a box can be such a force for good throughout the universe.
Which of the Thirteen Doctors would you rank as your own personal favorites?
JH: It’s the popular answer, I feel, but Ten is still my favorite.
Jodie Whittaker’s Thirteenth Doctor is very new, having appeared on-screen for only a few minutes at the time of this writing. How does it feel to essentially work alongside the showrunner, writers, and actors as they create this character and her companions? Has this series presented any unique hurdles or opportunities as a result?
JH: Having not only a new Doctor, but three new companions makes for a bit of a struggle when you don’t have extensive examples of everyone’s voices yet. Luckily, we got to sneak a peek at some of the script pages early on, and as more episodes air, we learn more and more about both the Doctor and her friends.
Are there any classic Who characters or adversaries you’re itching to include? And on the opposite end of that question, are there any new characters or concepts you can’t wait to add to the Who-niverse?
JH: I had SO much fun writing Missy for the Road to Thirteen backup. I would love to do more with her.
