Doctor Who’s Greatest Villains Getting Restored First Appearance, Fans Will See New Episode

By Charlene Badasie | Published

The 60th anniversary of Doctor Who is set to include The Daleks, one of the most iconic and enduring villains in the long-running British sci-fi series. Per the BBC, a remastered color version of “The Daleks” will be broadcast as part of the special celebrations on November 23. As the second story in Doctor Who’s history, the seven-part serial played a pivotal role in turning the show into a blockbuster success.

The First Doctor Who Story Featuring The Daleks Is Being Restored

The special broadcast of Doctor Who “The Daleks” will air on BBC Four in the UK. The revamped version has been reimagined into a condensed 75-minute format and features a fresh score by composer Mark Ayres.

It’s been my absolute pleasure to spend this past 12 months working with such a talented team to breathe new life into this classic adventure,” Doctor Who executive producer Phil Collins said.

The Daleks First Appeared In Doctor Who In 1963

doctor who daleks

The original is a masterpiece of 1960s television drama, and this new version stands on the shoulders of the pioneering spirit of 1960’s Doctor Who,” Collins continued. In Doctor Who, the Daleks were created by screenwriter Terry Nation and first appeared in the series in 1963. “The Daleks” was initially commissioned by script editor David Whitaker, who was familiar with Nation’s previous writing.

Terry Nation developed a story outline inspired by the Nazi threat of racial extermination. Although the show’s creator, Sydney Newman, was initially opposed to the idea of serials featuring “bug-eyed monsters,” Whitaker and producer Verity Lambert were highly impressed with Terry Nation’s concept for Doctor Who and the Daleks.

The Robotic-Looking Aliens Seek To Exterminate All Other Lifeforms

The directorial duties for Doctor Who “The Daleks” were divided between Christopher Barry, who directed several episodes, and Richard Martin, who directed three episodes due to Barry’s other work obligations. The Daleks are a ruthless race of extraterrestrial mutants encased in armored, tank-like robotic shells.

They are known for their distinctive appearance, which includes a single-eye stalk and a gun-like appendage. In the Doctor Who serial, the Daleks are characterized by their extreme xenophobia and an absolute hatred of all non-Dalek life forms. They believe in the superiority of their own species and aim to exterminate or subjugate all other forms of life in the universe.

Like The Doctor, Daleks Also Travel Through Time And Space

They are ruthless, single-minded, lack empathy or compassion, and are driven by their desire for power. Within the Doctor Who story, the Daleks will stop at nothing to achieve their goals. Additionally, the Daleks are not limited to one location. They can travel through time and space using advanced technology. They often appear in different time periods and on various planets throughout the series.

Davros Created The Daleks

The Daleks were created by the scientist Davros, who modified and mutated the Kaled race into the Dalek form during a devastating war on the planet Skaro. Davros intended to create the ultimate life form, devoid of emotions and completely obedient to his orders. For Doctor Who, the series’ time-traveling protagonist, the Daleks pose a recurring threat.

The Daleks Are One Of The Most Recognized Villains In Doctor Who

Over the years, the Daleks have appeared in various forms and colors, including different ranks within their society. They have been featured in numerous Doctor Who episodes, serials, and specials and have even crossed over into spin-off media and other adaptations. For Doctor Who fans, the Daleks remain a beloved and enduring part of the series lore and have left an indelible mark on the sci-fi genre.

It is unclear when the special broadcast of the Doctor Who serial featuring the Daleks will be available outside the UK.