Ranking Every Doctor from Worst to Best (Doctor Who)

Ranking Every Doctor From Worst to Best (Doctor Who)

They may be the same character, but some play it better than others. Welcome to WatchMojoUK and today we’ll be ranking every Doctor from “Doctor Who” from worst to best.

For this list, we’ll be ranking the various incarnations of the Time Lord, “The Doctor” in order of amazingness, at least as of 2019. That’s not to say that those at the bottom of our list aren’t awesome in their own right, however. That’s the beauty of “Doctor Who” - everyone has their own Doctor, so feel free to share your favorites and rankings in the comments. Also, watch out for spoilers!

#14: Thirteenth Doctor - Jodie Whittaker

No one can accuse us of recency bias! The current Doctor gracing our televisions and the first woman to play the role, Jodie Whittaker has only appeared in one series as the heroic Time Lord, or rather Time Lady, so far, but she’s fit the role fairly well. The 13th Doctor’s fascination with the universe and hopeful optimism are endearing. However, her first series proved polarizing among fans, and even those who like her Doctor haven’t been impressed by the writing of her era thus far. But ultimately, she’s in the last spot because, unlike the others, her time isn’t over yet, so we don’t feel like we’ve seen everything she’s capable of.

#13: Sixth Doctor – Colin Baker

Most people were probably expecting this Doctor to be last on the list, but you were wrong! The 6th Doctor is characterized by his arrogance, verbosity, and generally standoffish nature, which clashes as much with his wardrobe as his clothes do with everything else. It’s these qualities that generally make him one of the least revered Doctors. Even so, despite his smugness, he uses his righteous anger to stand up for those in need. While the many issues behind-the-scenes during his tenure may have doomed public perception of Colin Baker’s Doctor, Big Finish audio dramas do the 6th Doctor justice, so give them a look if he’s your favorite, or think he deserves another chance.

#12: War Doctor – John Hurt

The odd Doctor out you might say, since he and even the other Doctors largely believe him unworthy of their name, the War Doctor is the version who fought during the horrific, mind-boggling conflict called the Time War. Despite only appearing in a few episodes, John Hurt’s performance nevertheless makes a profound impression as an aging warrior tired of war, who manages to find hope again with help from his future selves. Hurt’s version of the character was certainly worthy of the name Doctor by the end, and while his few appearances do make him feel more special, quantity is still a factor.

#11: Eighth Doctor – Paul McGann

Like the War Doctor, the 8th Doctor appeared onscreen only a few times – in a poorly received TV movie (though McGann is easily the highlight of it) and a short for the 50th anniversary. Yet, like another Doctor we’ve discussed, McGann got his due in other media and his tenure is actually one of the longest lasting of any of them, depending on your criteria. The 8th Doctor was an enthusiastic adventurer and something of a romantic, but his pacifism and outlook were challenged towards the end of his life, as, despite his best efforts, he becomes embroiled in the Time War. We only wish more of his adventures could’ve been onscreen! Get this man back on televisison!

#10: Fifth Doctor – Peter Davison

Sporting a cricket outfit and a sprig of celery, the 5th Doctor is one of the physically younger incarnations of the Doctor, but, apart from some occasional bickering with his companions, he also displays a more mature and reserved air. While this has led some to consider him a bit vanilla, we like his particular flavor. After all, how bland can someone be if they pull off a decorative vegetable? Despite his more laid back attitude, the 5th Doctor could be a man of action when needed; engaging in sword fights and desperate attempts to save his friends on several occasions.

#9: First Doctor – William Hartnell

He’s not just “a” doctor, he’s the Doctor – the original, you might say. The Doctor who ran away from Gallifrey with his granddaughter, the 1st Doctor is a bit of a curmudgeon and prone to overestimating his own abilities, but his thirst for knowledge and innate heroism are already apparent this early on. Plus, he does have a twinkle in his eye and plenty of mischief in his heart. He would be higher on the list, but as the foundational Doctor, he doesn’t quite reach the heights of the others…even if he does always come back.

#8: Second Doctor – Patrick Troughton

The 1st Doctor was a tough act to follow, particularly since it’d never been done before, but Patrick Troughton pulled it off with style! The 2nd Doctor is arguably even more influential than his predecessor, as it’s in this incarnation that the Doctor’s silly, yet brilliant personality, penchant for running awa- , er, for strategic retreats, and more open affection for his companions all got their start with him. Although he’s another Doctor surpassed by those who followed, we still love him for the clever, avuncular “cosmic hobo” that he is.

#7: Seventh Doctor – Sylvester McCoy

Don’t let his bumbling demeanor and question mark vest fool you – the 7th Doctor is actually one of the most devious incarnations of the Time Lord. Although still a protector of people across time and space, this Doctor is best known for his Machiavellian scheming, often treating both friends and foes as chess pieces to achieve the best possible outcome. This can make him come across as ruthless, but he still cares about his companions, often acting as a mentor to them, and his motives are good, even if his methods push the boundaries. This dichotomy makes for a fascinating Doctor.

#6: Third Doctor – Jon Pertwee

Stranded on Earth by the Time Lords during the ‘70s…or maybe the ‘80s…the third version of the Doctor made the best of things by working with UNIT to combat Britain’s higher than average alien invasion rates. Besides being a dapper dresser, the 3rd Doctor was a man of science, as well as a man of action; equally comfortable in a laboratory as taking down thugs with Venusian Aikido or handling all manner of vehicles. Although prone to fiery tirades when forced to suffer fools, the 3rd Doctor was nevertheless kind to his friends, cordial to his enemies, and possessed a sarcastic sense of humor. He might not carry a gun, but he’s as close to James Bond as the Doctor has ever gotten.

#5: Ninth Doctor – Christopher Eccleston

The first Doctor in the modern era of the show, the 9th Doctor is also the first following the Time War. Haunted by the conflict, this Doctor is often curt and rude, while also prone to bouts of blind rage, particularly where the Daleks are concerned. However, he can still be chipper and enthusiastic about his travels. While he is often overlooked, due to his single season stint on the program, Eccleston’s Doctor deserves all the credit in the world for helping bring the show into the 21st century and he is, in a word – fantastic.

#4: Twelfth Doctor – Peter Capaldi

The next most recent Doctor as of this writing, the 12th Doctor has some of the most character development of any of the character’s incarnations. Initially, he’s hesitant about his own morality, before rediscovering himself and becoming something of relaxed rocker. Eventually he finds a happy medium between the two, though he retains a sarcastic, standoffish attitude throughout, which belies his inner kindness. Though this can make the 12th Doctor feel less consistent than the others, his growth is still great to see and Capaldi’s performance is a powerful and compelling one throughout.

#3: Eleventh Doctor – Matt Smith

Physically the youngest of the Doctors thus far, the 11th Doctor is an old man in a young persons body, able to play the fool, as well as the world weary explorer. At times excitable, alien, and quirky, and prone to talking with his hands, the 11th Doctor is also able to deliver many a speech, with plenty of fury and swagger. As the final incarnation in the Doctor’s first regeneration cycle, Matt Smith’s Doctor manages to draw on all his predecessors, while adding his own flair to the role, which is just what every Doctor needs. Were it not for how iconic our remaining entries are to the character, Smith would certainly be in contention for one of their spots.

#2: Fourth Doctor – Tom Baker

For many “Doctor Who” fans, the 4th Doctor is THE Doctor – the definite article, you might say. And that’s hardly surprising, since Tom Baker played the role for a record 7 years on television, and still is in audio dramas! The 4th Doctor’s hat, coat, and overlong scarf are all iconic, but it’s more than just his appearance that has stuck with fans. His incredible wit, lust for adventure, sense of wonder, and completely off-the-wall behavior have many convinced that Tom Baker isn’t just playing the role, but embodying it in way few before or since have been able to match.

#1: Tenth Doctor – David Tennant

Yes, by process of elimination, and possibly knowledge of the “Doctor Who” fandom – you all knew this was coming! Is the 10th Doctor overrated? Possibly, fangirls and fanboys, but he’s still rather brilliant and his rank is well-deserved. Always ready with a devil may care attitude and a joyful enthusiasm for discovery, the 10th Doctor can also be deadly serious when pushed too far. He’s also one of the more human Doctors, confessing his melancholy and insecurities to his friends, and engaging in several romances. Whether it’s because of his relatability, his confidence, or just that damn handsome face; Whovians have a special place in their hearts for the 10th Doctor.