The Eleventh

This past Wednesday it was reported that the read through for the Doctor Who 2013 Christmas special was held. This is a emotional occurrence for Who fans everywhere, as this year's Christmas special will be the final episode for Matt Smith, the actor who has played the eleventh incarnation of the Doctor for the past three series.

The regeneration of the Doctor is always a magical moment in television. The scenes are very emotional, and rarely do we see an occurrence that elicits both sadness and joy at the same time. Fans are always sad to see the current actor leave but simultaneously excited about the unknown of the new incarnation. How will he be played? What will he wear? What will be his quirks? What color of the emotional spectrum will he project? These are the moments in the show's history where the Doctor is at his most raw, exposed, and vulnerable.

Discussions among fans is already on the topic of how the fall of Eleven will occur. Speculation lately has turned to longtime series monsters the cybermen as possibly playing a role in the special. Stuntman Darrelle Parker tweeted "Great to be stunting again for Dr Who in the Christmas special playing a cyberman!" providing fuel for this fire of discussion.

One thing is for certain... while I am excited and anxious to see Peter Capaldi man the helm and to get to know his version of the Doctor, until the moment the regeneration occurs Matt Smith is still the Doctor. Until he fades from the scene, I will enjoy every bowtie-wearing moment. Geronimo Matt Smith... and thank you!