And the New Doctor Is...

Okay, I'm a little late, but I suppose that's better than never. So, on Sunday the BBC announced via a thirty-minute television special that the Twelfth Doctor to take the place of Matt Smith on Doctor Who is Peter Capaldi. This was perhaps not as surprising as some had hoped as Capaldi was named the most likely choice as the announcement aired.

Personally, I'm very excited. I have no prior knowledge of Capaldi or his work, I have looked into it since the announcement, and he seems like a good choice. He is much older than Matt Smith, and at 55 years of age, Capaldi will be the second oldest actor to take on the part, aside from William Hartnell who was a few months Capaldi's senior upon taking the role in 1963. I wasn't sure how I was going to take to him upon the release of his name. I am not someone who takes dramatic change in his stride, and regeneration is a dramatic change. Just from his publicity photo, Capaldi already looks the part and I think that he will fit in perfectly alongside the other doctors. While I'm at it though, I should voice my opinion quickly on those outraged by Capaldi's casting. There have been a swarm of reactions from people in the wake of his casting, upset by the fact that Capaldi is not young and handsome. Sure, it's a change coming off of David Tennant and Matt Smith, both rather attractive men, but it's time to mix it up.

People who say that they will quit watching the show because of Capaldi's casting are obviously not true fans of the show. The part of Doctor is based more on just looks. The show's original concept was to have the Doctor be an unattractive, older man who spirits away companions in the TARDIS. Capaldi will be a wonderful throwback to the Doctors of yesteryear, which is perfect since the show is celebrating 50 years this November.

Despite my profound excitement, I still withhold final judgement until I've actually seen Capaldi in action. But, I have a feeling that battling some Daleks and piloting the TARDIS will suit Peter Capaldi just fine.

What do you think of Peter Capaldi's casting? If you're a Doctor Who fan, or someone familiar with his work, sound off in the comments below.