‘Doctor Who’ Fans Select Ideal Future Companion Following “Joy to the World” Episode

Doctor Who’s Magical Christmas Special: “Joy to the World”

Doctor Who has a remarkable tradition of producing captivating Christmas specials, and the latest installment, titled “Joy to the World,” featuring Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan, has been widely praised by critics. Audiences agree that a British Christmas day feels incomplete without the presence of the ever-curious Time Lord.

Warning: Spoilers ahead for Doctor Who’s 2024 Christmas Special, “Joy to the World.”

Guest Stars and Fan Favorites

One of the charming aspects of Doctor Who Christmas specials is how they often introduce guest stars who captivate audiences, leaving fans wishing for their extended presence in the TARDIS. A quintessential example is Catherine Tate’s Donna Noble, who first graced the screen in the 2006 Christmas special, “The Runaway Bride.” Initially met with skepticism—a stand-up comedian as a companion—she ultimately won hearts during her tenure as the Doctor’s main companion in season 4, becoming a beloved figure in Who lore.

This year’s special took a different turn. Although Nicola Coughlan’s character, Joy, was delightful, the audience’s affection was primarily directed towards another character: Anita Benn, portrayed by Steph de Whalley.

The Charismatic Anita Benn

Anita serves as the manager of the hotel where Joy checks in early in the episode. She immediately won over viewers with her relatable demeanor—especially pertinent to anyone who has experienced the challenges of customer service—and her response to the temporal chaos misfiring around her. However, it was a particularly touching moment in the middle of the episode that solidified her status as a fan favorite.

A Unique Bond

In an intriguing plot twist involving a bootstrap paradox (the kind of intricate storytelling that Doctor Who fans relish), the Doctor finds himself stuck on Earth for a year. He takes a handyman job at Anita’s hotel, leading to a blossoming friendship between the two characters. Their bond deepens over casual board games and the Doctor’s unconventional approaches to everyday troubles. The narrative offers a heartwarming glimpse into how a unique connection gives the Doctor a chance to slow down and savor the present, making fans fall for Anita just as deeply as the Doctor did.

The Doctor and Anita are a duo I’m really going to need more of. Nothing better happen to her. #DoctorWho pic.twitter.com/nrNGfq5osP

— Jay Thomas (@GroundhogJay_) December 25, 2024

I was more sold emotionally on Anita than I was with Joy or Ruby.

— jude (@_PigginTeaBreak) December 25, 2024

Numerous fans voiced a desire for Anita to become a permanent companion, much like Donna did.

i need anita to be the next companion for the fifteenth doctor for ncuti’s third series!! i am sorry but i love them so much!!! this is a petition for anita to be the next doctor who companion after ruby and belinda!!! pic.twitter.com/sm5Yl317Gv

— dweebs? ? (@dweeeebles) December 25, 2024

Anita for the 2025 companion, honestly. #DoctorWho

— sarah (@sarahlicity) December 25, 2024

The Future of Anita’s Character

While there’s currently no open spot for a new companion—Varada Sethu’s Belinda Chandra is set to accompany the Doctor in the upcoming season—possibilities remain after that. Since Anita received a happy ending in “Joy to the World,” with a new job at the Time Hotel thanks to the Doctor, the door is open for potential future encounters. Regardless of her fate, Anita will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the standout side characters in the rich tapestry of Doctor Who history.

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