William Hartnell a Doctor for his time

On the day of the first Doctor Who’s 111th birthday, superfan Donal O’Keeffe looks back at the man who originated the iconic role — William Hartnell.

Jodie Whittaker has just completed her first series starring in Doctor Who, and she has been a critical and ratings success, joyously rejuvenating the 55-year-old series. As today would be his 111th birthday, what might William Hartnell, the First Doctor, make of the woman taking over the keys to the TARDIS?

When Doctor Who debuted in November 1963, the Doctor was a crotchety old man who had little time for his time-travelling companions. Looking older than his 56 years, Hartnell soon gained a reputation for being as difficult as the character he played.