H Impanzi

Oh... Dear... Russell T Davies is more than capable of creating an amazing Doctor Who series that appeals to fans of all ages. So why does the new series feel like it's being rebooted as a children's show, with the last dregs of Chris Chibnall's preachy woke agenda sprinkled in for good measure? Having already scuppered what should have been an excellent innings for Jodie Whittaker, the BBC now seems intent on doing the same for Ncuti Gatwa. Sadly, like many other fans I now see the series being axed again in the near future. However, I would like to finish on a positive. Huge respect goes out to the legend that managed to get the line "I just got sn******ed, and I would like to go home." into the show. Absolute genius. If you don't get the reference and / or the joke please Google it.

*** SPOILERS *** Unfortunately this series is the polar opposite of its predecessor, with light tropical escapism replaced by dark depressing reality. Subject matters covered so far are a major character having a miscarriage, a distraught father threatening to drive his young children over a cliff and an arson attack in revenge for a sexual assault (leading to a misguided parent becoming a serial arsonist to try and cover it all up). All of the above are set against a backdrop of juvenile delinquents shoplifting and stealing cars, highlighting the very real challenges faced by many deprived seaside towns in the 21st century. I'm bracing myself for the final episode, where I'm sure they've saved the worst for last. Perhaps the local vicar sets fire to a basket of kittens, or the head of the local primary school is found to be the leader of a paedophile ring. Watch this show if you must, but please set your expectations accordingly.