The Fourteenth Doctor's new sonic screwdriver, as seen in Doctor Who's Disney+ era, bears a striking resemblance to the one used by the Eleventh Doctor. Originally serving as a convenient rescue tool in the classic era, the introduction of a new sonic screwdriver now generates similar excitement to seeing the new TARDIS console room. The show's branding and merchandise are likely to be closely tied to this iconic device, as evidenced by the early release of a replica toy prior to the 60th anniversary specials.
A video on social media unveiled the new sonic screwdriver, resembling a stylish commercial for a modern razor or household vacuum. It showcased the screwdriver's gold rings and retractable prongs near the tip. These features invite comparisons to the Eleventh Doctor's sonic screwdriver, which was bulkier and slightly larger than the version wielded by David Tennant's Tenth Doctor. The similarities between these screwdrivers may suggest the Doctor's affinity towards this particular design, or hint at more subtle implications behind the Fourteenth Doctor's sonic mirroring the Eleventh's.
Doctor Who's New Sonic Screwdriver Pays Homage To Past Doctors
The new sonic screwdriver in Doctor Who has a general resemblance to the ones used by Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi. However, its design also pays homage to past Doctors. The hilt is directly inspired by the Eleventh and Twelfth Doctors' versions from seasons 5 to 8. Going up, the coral shaft with the slider is a callback to the Ninth and Tenth Doctor's sonic screwdrivers from the early days of the reboot in 2005. The blue light is also reminiscent of both Christopher Eccleston's and Peter Capaldi's second sonic screwdrivers from the end of season 9 onwards.
Additionally, the small bulb on the tip and the cylinder it sits in are reminiscent of the sonic screwdrivers used by Paul McGann and John Hurt's Doctors during the Time War. Lastly, it seems to be made of Sheffield steel, a reference to Jodie Whittaker's Thirteenth Doctor. It's as if David Tennant's Fourteenth Doctor has constructed this new screwdriver from spare parts. Perhaps this is why the new Doctor, with the old face, has a new sonic screwdriver made from old parts in the 60th anniversary specials.
David Tennant's New Sonic Is Perfect For Doctor Who's 60th Anniversary
The main focus of Doctor Who's 60th anniversary story revolves around the reasons behind the Fourteenth Doctor resembling and dressing like the Tenth Doctor. Speculation suggests that nostalgia and the Doctor being trapped in their own past are central themes in Russell T Davies' new episodes. Remembering her past could have deadly consequences for Donna Noble (Catherine Tate), while Ncuti Gatwa's bold portrayal of the Doctor is hindered by being stuck in a nostalgic loop, possibly orchestrated by Neil Patrick Harris' mysterious villain.
The most successful Doctor Who anniversary specials pay homage to the show's rich history and legacy, while also propelling it into a fresh era. The designation of this event as "The Fourteenth Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver" hints at the possibility of Ncuti Gatwa having his own unique version or even abandoning this particular characteristic altogether. Through the regeneration of the Fourteenth Doctor into the Fifteenth, along with the destruction of their backup sonic screwdriver, Doctor Who could finally break free from the constraints of its past.