10 Episodes of Doctor Who That Are Often Missed

Introduction

Since Doctor Who's revival in 2005, there have been plenty of amazing episodes, but more than a few have been forgotten. With Doctor Who season 14 due to air in Spring 2024, there are sure to be many great new adventures in the TARDIS. Since its reboot, Doctor Who has introduced five new Doctors to the Whoniverse, with Ncuti Gatwa playing the next incarnation. With 13 seasons under its belt since 2005, it's not surprising that some Doctor Who episodes have become unappreciated over time. Of course, this doesn't mean they're bad episodes. With so many amazing stories having been told over the years, it makes sense that a few are forgotten.

In this article, we will take a closer look at 10 episodes of Doctor Who that are often missed. These episodes may not have received the attention they deserve, but they offer compelling storylines, character development, and memorable moments that are worth revisiting.

The Long Game

Christopher Eccleston's Ninth Doctor only appears in 13 episodes, and 'The Long Game' is easily one of his best, though it's also often forgotten. Coming midway into season 1, it's something of a filler episode. Despite this, it's an essential story for the season's arc and sets up the establishment of Satellite 5, which the Doctor and Rose (Billie Piper) return to in the two-part season finale. While this episode tends to be overlooked, it's a brilliant stand-alone adventure and a great watch for those with limited Doctor Who knowledge. 'The Long Game' also guest-stars Simon Pegg as the Editor, in one of his most underrated performances on television.

Simon Pegg as the Editor in the Doctor Who episode The Long Game

The Long Game may not be a fan favorite, but it's an important piece of the Ninth Doctor's journey, and it deserves recognition for its contribution to the overall narrative of the series.

New Earth

This was the first regular season episode for the Tenth Doctor (David Tennant), who had been introduced in the 2005 holiday special, 'The Christmas Invasion.' While Tennant received a brilliant reception for that debut, 'New Earth' is often overlooked. This is surprising, considering it sees the return of the villain Cassandra (Zoë Wanamaker) and the Face of Boe, and it's the first time that viewers truly see the kind of Doctor that the new incarnation will be. 'New Earth' is a great adventure and proves that the Doctor and Rose's relationship isn't impacted too much by the Time Lord's regeneration.

Tenth Doctor and Rose look at the New New York skyline in the Doctor Who episode New Earth

The episode 'New Earth' provides a glimpse into the Tenth Doctor's character and showcases the resilience of the Doctor-Rose dynamic, making it a significant episode in the series.

42

A fantastically fast-paced episode, '42' is still often forgotten about despite being intense and filled with danger. This may be because there are quite a few supporting characters who have minor roles, which makes it difficult to follow at times. However, '42' is a brilliant episode for Martha Jones (Freema Aygeman) and sees her at her strongest. While it isn't one of Doctor Who's best episodes overall, it's a staple in Martha and the Doctor's relationship. Her actions in '42' lead to the Time Lord inviting her to be a permanent member of Team TARDIS, and without it, season 3 would be very different.

David Tennant as the Tenth Doctor infected by an alien sun in the Doctor Who episode 42

Despite its overshadowed status, '42' remains a pivotal episode in Martha Jones's journey and her impact on the Doctor's companionship.