A Doctor Who TV spot gives a new glimpse at Neil Patrick Harris' mysterious 60th anniversary special villain. The celebratory three-episode storyline is set to air in the fall of 2023, with David Tennant and Catherine Tate starring in a story helmed by returning showrunner Russell T Davies. Tennant will return to the series as the Fourteenth Doctor, a new incarnation who is shocked to learn that he somehow has the same face as the tenth regeneration of the Time Lord.Following the last ominous Doctor Who 60th anniversary teaser, a new transmission has disturbed BBC1's usual broadcast, offering a new glimpse at the upcoming episodes.
In the teaser captured by Bad Wolf Archives, new footage of Harris' mysterious Doctor Who villain has been revealed, first showing a sequence where his character is dressed in a tuxedo and dancing amidst chaos in the streets. This is followed by footage of the villain encountering the Fourteenth Doctor and Tate's Donna Noble in his previously seen shopkeeper attire. When reversed, Harris' laugh can be heard, as the Doctor states, "You've been in everyone's head."
Is Neil Patrick Harris' Villain A Face From Doctor Who's Past?
Doctor Who's 60th anniversary will see Tennant's new incarnation of the Doctor come face to face with many foes, including classic comic book villain Beep the Meep. Beep made its debut in the 1980 Fourth Doctor (portrayed in the show by Tom Baker) comic book adventure Doctor Who and the Star Beast, and the 60th anniversary specials are expected to loosely adapt certain events of that storyline into television. However, while Beep's television debut has been confirmed for some time, Harris' villain has remained a mystery despite being one of the first confirmed cast members.
With his Doctor Who character teased as a powerful threat, having a playful but menacing demeanor and being the owner of a mysterious vintage toyshop, it is currently speculated that Harris could be portraying a modern incarnation of the Celestial Toymaker. First played by Michael Gough in 1966, the Toymaker is an insane, all-powerful immortal who plays cataclysmic games to distract himself from isolation. Despite his incredible power, he hasn't been seen on television since his initial story, and was only mentioned briefly in the 2020 episode "Can You Hear Me?". The Toymaker's return would be a perfect way to celebrate classic Doctor Who.
While the Doctor Who TV spot has still kept the identity of Harris' villain under wraps, the new shots and dialogue are sure to further speculation. Hints that the villain has the power to control and manipulate people further play into theories that Harris could be portraying a modern incarnation of the Toymaker. Additionally, as more teasers interrupt BBC broadcasts, it seems likely that a full Doctor Who trailer is just around the corner.
Source: Bad Wolf Archives/Twitter