I'll Explain Later: conversations about Doctor Who

Wish World / The Reality War

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:37:26 GMT

As Mrs Flood kept reminding us, the finale was on 24th May 2025, but a combination of jetlag and food poisoning conspired to keep our thoughts from you until now. But all's that's behind us - here's our slightly cooled-off take on Wish World and The Reality War, along with some overall thoughts on Doctor Who's Disney run. Along the way, we discuss getting to the airport without your passport, introduce a new taxonomy of how to rank Who eras, and ponder on why the show is apparently obsessed with babies these days.

Keep 'em peeled for a special treat in the coming weeks - and stay subscribed for our next series, landing in the Autumn!

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The Story and The Engine / The Interstellar Song Contest

Sun, 18 May 2025 16:34:47 GMT

After a week's break, we return to the fray with a conversation about the two most recent episodes of Doctor Who - The Story and The Engine and The Interstellar Song Contest. Along the way we discuss how "British" Doctor Who actually is, more on-the-nose metaphors and where Dugga Doo ranks in the Murray Gold songbook.

We're taking another break next week, but join us wherever you get your podcasts on 1st June for a conversation about the two-part finale and our post-season debrief. We'll be catching up on recent listener and viewer correspondence then, so please email us with your thoughts on Doctor Who 2025 to hello@illexplainlater.com.

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Lucky Day

Sun, 04 May 2025 18:06:38 GMT

We hit the halfway point of Doctor Who's 2025 season with a podcast episode about Lucky Day, an episode about a podcast. Along the way we discuss cowardly robots, the limits of state power and crypto spam.

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The Well

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 16:45:34 GMT

On this week's I'll Explain Now instalment, we review the latest episode of the 2025 series of Doctor Who - The Well. Along the way we discuss radical optimism, David Lynch and where and when less really does give you more.

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Lux

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 12:44:21 GMT

Our I'll Explain Now season of bleeding-edge Doctor Who reviews continues with yesterday's Fifteenth Doctor adventure, Lux. Along the way we consider some common ground between Jon Pertwee and Ncuti Gatwa's Doctors, ruminate on vibes-based Doctor Who and take a detour into discussing TV chefs.

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The Robot Revolution

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 16:19:36 GMT

I'll Explain Now! Join us as we celebrate Doctor Who's return with a blazing-hot take on last night's episode, The Robot Revolution. Along the way we discuss Tintin rockets, our awkward teenage years and the peculiar bind that Doctor Who finds itself in in 2025.

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The Web Planet

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

For the final instalment of our missing-presumed-wiped 2019 recording, we look at Hartnell-era SFX spectacle The Web Planet. Along the way, we consider how autobiographical this story might have been for Bill Strutton, whether or not its reputation is deserved, and - of course - insect movement.

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Gridlock

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

In the second instalment of our freshly reconstructed 2019 "lost" recording, we look at the Tenth Doctor's bout of motorway madness, Gridlock. Along the way we consider RTD's use of messianic imagery, coo over some kittens and revisit our initial reactions to that Macra reveal.

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Frontios

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

We're taking a couple of weeks off recording, but to tide you over, here's a little treat from the vaults for you - a previously unreleased review of Frontios from a missing-presumed-wiped recording we made back in 2019. Along the way we consider where the vibe shift between Peter Davison and Colin Baker actually took place, why Tegan continues to have very little faith in the Doctor, and what you need to effectively convey trauma in Doctor Who.

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Thin Ice

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week, we catch up with the Twelfth Doctor and Bill as we skate over Thin Ice. Along the way we discuss the Doctor's morality, sing Pearl Mackie's praises and weight up which Doctors evolved the most over their tenures.

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The Armageddon Factor

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week, we look at the earth-shattering conclusion to the Key to Time saga with the Fourth Doctor epic The Armageddon Factor. Along the way, we get to grips with Tom Baker's late-era antics, consider some beguilingly odd telly and weigh up Bob Baker and Dave Martin's contributions to Doctor Who.

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Nikola Tesla's Night of Terror

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week, we turn up the voltage with the Thirteenth Doctor and chums as they face Nikola Tesla's Night Of Terror. Along the way we discuss the myths surrounding Tesla himself, the ethics of the "celeb historical", and experience some monster deja-vu.

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The Hand of Fear

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week, we grab a hanky and join the Fourth Doctor in saying goodbye to Sarah Jane as we wave through The Hand of Fear. Along the way, we consider Tom Baker's emotional availability, great Episode Ones, and Matt deploys an unfortunate turn of phrase.

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The Fires of Pompeii

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week, we watch the Tenth Doctor and Donna's rocky trip to ancient Pompeii. Along the way, we full our "Doctor Who history story" bingo card, consider RTD's input into guest-writer scripts, and weigh up the optimal number of companions.

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The Crusade

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week we wind right back to the Hartnell era for a look at historical epic The Crusade. Along the way we discuss ants, filming with bows and arrows, and start to unpick exactly what we do and don't want from Doctor Who stories set in Earth's past.

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The Empty Child / The Doctor Dances

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week we're looking back twenty years (twenty! years!) to the first proper episode written by one Steven Moffat - someone who I think we'll be hearing a bit more from in future. Along the way we discuss shame, romance and the ways in which a sprinkling of science fiction can get us closer to historical truth.

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Enlightenment

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week, in an episode recorded prior to the recent, sad passing of writer Barbara Clegg, we look aloft at the Fifth Doctor and chums as they search for Enlightenment. Along the way we consider the role of gods in Doctor Who, reasses the conventional view of Peter Davison's Doctor as "nice" and add another 80s celebrity to our cameo tally.

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The Android Invasion

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

This week we hit the pub with the Fourth Doctor as he faces down The Android Invasion. Along the way we discuss the benefits of having a journalist on board the TARDIS, stinky facial accessories, and whether or not we might have been a tad unfair to one of the elder statesmen of Doctor Who.

Read the article about Terrance Dicks' politics that John mentions here.

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Resolution

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Happy New Year! We ring in 2025 with a look at one of Doctor Who's more recent seasonal traditions - the New Year's Day episode, as inaugurated by Thirteenth Doctor epic Resolution. Along the way we discuss the influence of Andrzej Zulawski, consider the show's odd approach to families, and of course have a conversation about the "have a conversation" scene.

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EMERGENCY BROADCAST: Joy To The World

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 19:59:00 GMT

It's a Christmas miracle! We got on an international call to discuss yesterday's brand new episode of Doctor Who, Joy To The World. Along the way, we consider the importance of hope, the challenges of watching Doctor Who with your family and begin our journey with Doctor Who's Disney era.

We hope you're having a wonderful festive period - we'll be back on Friday 3rd January with a brand new episode to ring in 2025...

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Last Christmas

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:00:00 GMT

And incidentally a Happy Christmas to all of you at home! We're full of the festive spirit at I'll Explain Later - but will 2014's yuletide episode Last Christmas turn out to be an absolute cracker? Listen in to find out... Along the way, we consider companions who could have been, doff our caps to Greg Lake, and exchange some Christmas gifts.

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Spyfall

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 01:00:00 GMT

We dry-clean our tuxes and prepare for the all-time high of Spyfall (parts 1 and 2), the opening episode of the Thirteenth Doctor’s second season. Along the way, we consider the connective tissue between James Bond and Doctor Who, weigh up the Master’s views on outsourcing, and begin the yeoman’s work of fully unpacking Chris Chibnall’s contribution to the show.

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The Lodger

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 01:00:00 GMT

This week, we move in with the Eleventh Doctor and James Corden by way of 2010 romcom episode The Lodger. Along the way, we consider the value of the guest star in Doctor Who, the Doctor’s approach to making an omelette, and reveal an extraordinary Sliding Doors moment in Matt’s life.

You can watch the Doctor Who sketch from Swinging (featuring Matt as a Dalek) here!

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The Daemons

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 01:00:00 GMT

This week we cast a spell and summon the 1971 Third Doctor classic The Daemons. Along the way, we admire the UNIT lads' civvies, take a detour into the work of Erich von Daniken, and contemplate the role of magic in Doctor Who. All that, plus a world-exclusive look behind the scenes at BBC3 thanks to some recently unearthed footage!

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The Five Doctors

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 01:00:00 GMT

We bring the curtain down on Doctor Who's sixtieth anniversary year with a look back at the show's twentieth anniversary epic - 1983's The Five Doctors. Along the way we consider the malleability of the First Doctor, whether any directorial notes were given for THAT High Council scene, and what we actually want from an anniversary anyway.

Read Dave Owen's review of The Five Doctors from 2003 here.

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The Zygon Invasion / The Zygon Inversion

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 01:00:00 GMT

This week, we're looking at Twelfth Doctor two-parter The Zygon Invasion and The Zygon Inversion, and - going out on a real limb here - consider whether it might possibly have some sort of socio-political subtext. Along the way, we indulge in some uninformed speculation on show-runners that could have been, throw mild shade at The Thick of It, and consider the usefulness of an on-the-nose metaphor.

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Blink

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 01:00:00 GMT

We're back! And what better way to mark our triumphant return to your ears - and now eyes! - than one of the most consequential Doctor Who stories of all time? This week we unpack Tenth Doctor classic Blink. Along the way, we speculate on what a rare DVD business might stock, extol the virtues of seizing the moment, and consider whether making Doctor Who is ultimately just an exercise in throwing stuff against the wall.

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Genesis of the Daleks / The Magician's Apprentice / The Witch's Familiar

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 01:00:00 GMT

It's the end! And the moment has been reached with our signature lack of preparation. Thankfully we've still got two blockbuster Doctor Who stories to enjoy in our sequeltastic season finale - the Fourth Doctor's first encounter with Davros in Genesis of the Daleks, and the Twelfth Doctor's return to Skaro in The Magician's Apprentice and The Witch's Familiar.

Thanks so much for joining us over the last six weeks - it's the last episode in the season, but we'll be back in the not too distant future. If you've been enjoying the show, please leave us an Apple Podcasts review, and do drop us an email to hello@illexplainlater.com - we'd love to hear from you.

We'll be back - keep 'em peeled!

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The Robots of Death / The Paradise of Death

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 01:00:00 GMT

It's the "Of Death" special! In perhaps our most tenuously-themed episode yet, we discuss the uncanny valley, AI and helium as we consider Fourth Doctor classic The Robots of Death, then we switch mediums entirely to cop a load of X-rated VR while untangling the knots in our minds as we indulge ourselves in Third Doctor radio romp The Paradise of Death. (The latter nearly inspired us to upload last week's episode again in a high concept practical joke, but we thought better of it.) Plus we unveil a brand new game show format, exclusively for our listeners.

It's our last episode in the season next week - so "X" your comments to us here or drop us an email here. See you at the curtain call...

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The Girl Who Waited / Delta and the Bannermen

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 01:00:00 GMT

It's a holiday special! Not in the Christmas sense, or indeed in any meaningful way at all beyond that these are two stories where the Doctor and co attempt to take a holiday and fail. Under the microscope this week are Eleventh Doctor double threat The Girl Who Waited and the Seventh Doctor's encounter with Delta and the Bannermen.

Questions? Thoughts? Email them to hello@illexplainlater.com - and if you're enjoying this season of episodes, do leave us a lovely review wherever you get your podcasts!

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Boomtown / The Green Death

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:00:00 GMT

It's a Welsh special on this week's I'll Explain Later as we hop across the border to enjoy two stories that put Wales at the heart of the action - the Ninth Doctor's tense trip to Boomtown, and the Third Doctor's iconic brush with The Green Death.

Email your thoughts and questions to hello@illexplainlater.com or "X" us at @explainlaterpod - and we'll be back next week with another pair of adventures whose breadth and depth are perfectly proportioned for the small screen.

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The Underwater Menace / The Sound of Drums / Last Of The Time Lords

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 01:00:00 GMT

It's a dastardly double bill on this week's I'll Explain Later as we look back on the Doctor's encounters with two diabolical masterminds - Professor Zaroff, in aquatic Second Doctor caper The Underwater Menace, and The Sixth Master (as no-one calls him) in apocalyptic Tenth Doctor series finale The Sound of Drums / Last of the Time Lords. Can anything in the world stop us now? With our erratic release schedule, probably, but do check back next week for our next exciting episode...

Thoughts? Feedback? Views on the Question of the Week? Emails to hello@illexplainlater.com or X us (as no-one calls it) at @explainlaterpod...

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The Sea Devils / Legend of the Sea Devils

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 01:00:00 GMT

We're back! Thanks for sticking with us during our extended hiatus - we toyed with releasing a charity single, but instead decided to knuckle down and record a WHOLE NEW SEASON of I'll Explain Later. We'll be dropping new episodes weekly for the next six weeks, covering a slew of Doctor Who adventures past and... even more past.

And we're kicking off with a Sea Devil special, as we look at Third Doctor classic The Sea Devils and make our first foray into the Chris Chibnall era with Thirteenth Doctor swashbuckler Legend of the Sea Devils. Is either one of them a clanger? Listen in to find out.

As always, email your thoughts to hello@illexplainlater.com, particularly your thoughts this episode's Question Of The Week. And check back next week for our next episode!

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Marco Polo / The Rings of Akhaten / Remembrance of the Daleks

Wed, 26 May 2021 12:58:35 GMT

We tackled some weighty issues head-on in this month's livestream, as our analysis of MARCO POLO, THE RINGS OF AKHATEN and REMEMBRANCE OF THE DALEKS took in the Paradox of Tolerance, the history curriculum and advanced horticulture. Luckily, we still found room for our usual array of double entendres and general low-brow humour as well. Come for Matt's treatise on Terry Nation's indictments of British cultural memory; stay for John's attempt at a Venetian accent.

Thanks to everyone who joined us on the night. Please send your emails to hello@illexplainlater.com; you can also tweet us @explainlaterpod. And keep your eyes peeled for details of June's live show!

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The Trial of a Time Lord (live, 27 April 2021)

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 15:26:27 GMT

For this month's live show, we fought against our better instincts to bring you a bumper-length consideration of all 14 episodes of 1986's courtroom epic Trial of a Time Lord. Along the way, we discovered a wholly unexpected intersection between the worlds of Doctor Who and reggae, considered the health and safety implications of Time Lord architecture, and wondered just how long the Matrix has been lying to us for. Thanks to everyone who joined us on the night and contributed via the chat box!

We'll be back in May with another live episode, but in the meantime do leave us a (nice!) review on Apple Podcasts, tweet us at @explainlaterpod or email us on hello@illexplainlater.com - we'd love to hear from you.

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Day of the Daleks / The Girl in the Fireplace / The Invasion of Time (live, 6 April 2021)

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 17:45:11 GMT

It's about time! A little more so than usual on this month's live show, as we weigh up the pros and cons of time-wimey classics Day of the Daleks and The Girl in the Fireplace, before going deep on heavyweight Time Lord brawler The Invasion of Time. Along the way we discuss the Doctor's drinking habits, whether Milton Johns minded being typecast, speculate on whether Steven Moffat took inspiration from the Crystal Maze, and have a pretty spectacular dust-up over one of the three stories (you'll have to listen to find out which).

If you like the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, or tell your friends! And don't forget to join us for the next live show on Tuesday 27th April at 8pm (BST / UK time) where we'll be taking on Trial of a Time Lord in its entirety...

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The Moonbase / The Sontaran Experiment / The Pandorica Opens / The Big Bang (live, 23 Feb 2021)

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 20:08:26 GMT

Our second livestream saw John and Matt tackle a trio of returning monster mash-ups in mind-boggling detail - taking in Cyberman sugar-rush THE MOONBASE, Gravity Bar crawl THE SONTARAN EXPERIMENT, and the box-fresh PANDORICA OPENS / BIG BANG two-parter.

Along the way, we discussed whether Kit Pedler had an easy gig, enjoyed some prescient Sontaran video-conferencing, and apologised to Murray Gold. We also battled one or two technical issues with John's mic - nothing that will reduce your enjoyment of this episode (that's what our actual words are for) but something you may clock from time to time.

View the video version of this episode here!

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The Ark / Caves of Androzani / Heaven Sent (Live, 26th January 2021)

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 14:01:07 GMT

We emerge sleepily from an 18-month hibernation, only to find that we're confined to the house and a lot's changed in the interim. But our debut LIVE episode gave us the chance to find out whether kid's telly fave Doctor Who could tell us anything useful about the Very Strange Times we're living in, as we delved into Hartnell-era viral sensation The Ark, Peter Davison's laugh-a-minute swan-song The Caves of Androzani, and Peter Capaldi's adventures in lockdown in Heaven Sent.

Along the way, we discussed PPE supplies in the far future, invisible buttocks, the logistics of milking a bat, and we received some welcome real-time fact-checking from our livestream viewers.

Thanks to everyone who joined us on the night. You can watch a video version of this episode here - keep an eye on our Twitter for the date of our next live episode!

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Full Circle / Dalek / The Curse of Peladon

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 18:37:42 GMT

Page Peter Snow, brace for the exit poll - I’ll Explain Later goes psephological to explore three Doctor Who tales with political guru special guest Lewis Baston.

A duped demos dragged into drudgery slave away to fly the ship of state into unknown territory. If someone can get the Haynes manual off eBay. Live vivisection is just one of the highlights in lighthearted Fourth Doctor romp Full Circle.

The fall of an American president plays second fiddle to some tinpot story about a conglomeration of angry saucepans. We explore 2005’s moving mutation classic Dalek.

And [INSERT BREXIT GAG HERE - Ed] The Curse of Peladon.

Along the way, Matt muses on allergies, Lewis mourns the geek he could have been and John lays down the gauntlet to Jimmy Wales.

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The Stones of Blood / Night Terrors / Vengeance on Varos

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 06:23:04 GMT

Rocks, redemption and referendums in episode 35 of I'll Explain Later. Tom Baker does his best to hold his own against unexpressive and rigid screenmates, while the Ogri and Romana I co-star in 1978's The Stones of Blood. The Eleventh Doctor battles wobble boards and has to eat humble pie as a hopeless dad beats off wooden dolls - disturbing pyjama-based chills in 2011's Night Terrors. And a dead-eyed leader believes the ends justify the means when desperately interpreting the will of the people after a pernicious plebiscite. No read-across to the present day, but some brutal and jarring scenes as someone or other seeks Vengeance on Varos. Along the way, Doctor Who tackles urinary etiquette, Matt contemplates a massive library fine and John gets a promise of alcohol via the psychic paper.

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The Myth Makers / Silence in the Library / Mawdryn Undead

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 07:23:00 GMT

We're back - and it's ABOUT TIME! In our long-awaited comeback special, we enjoy a bit of horseplay with the First Doctor in The Myth Makers, relish a chicken dinner with the Tenth Doctor in Silence in the Library / Forest of the Dead, and get schooled by the Fifth Doctor in Mawdryn Undead. Along the way, we asked whether the First Doctor was a mass murderer, rate the sizzlin' chemistry that the various Doctors had with River Song, and wonder why the Brigadier is obsessed with beating up middle-aged schoolboys.

Thank you for sticking with us during our longer-than-planned absence - we're back in the saddle, so send your comments to hello@illexplainater.com, tweet us @explainlaterpod or find us on Facebook.

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The Mutants / The Doctor's Wife / The Face of Evil

Fri, 11 May 2018 19:13:31 GMT

It's ninety minutes of hellos and goodbyes on this somewhat delayed, erm, April instalment of I'll Explain Later. This month, the Third Doctor encounters some harsh imperial measures in The Mutants; the Eleventh Doctor rolls up his sleeves and gets under the hood in The Doctor's Wife; and the Fourth Doctor gets all big-headed about The Face of Evil. Along the way, we consider Geoffrey Palmer's motivations, reminisce about anthropomorphised TARDISes of yore, and sadly bid a fond farewell to Jim, in his last show as a regular co-host.

We're taking a few months off, but we'll be back later in the year with a regenerated show. In the meantime, do drop us an email on hello@illexplainlater.com, tweet us at @explainlaterpod or give us a poke on Facebook. Enjoy your summer, and stay tuned...

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The Highlanders / Fathers Day / Time And The Rani

Wed, 28 Mar 2018 08:25:20 GMT

Genius abounds in this slightly delayed 32nd I'll Explain Later. With the Tardis crew keen to escape the clutches of Butcher Cumberland, the Second Doctor channels all his thespian guile to hoodwink his adversaries in 1966-7 knockabout romp The Highlanders. A schlub or a savant? Rose wants to know more about her deceased dad and uncovers his yogurt-based plan for riches in 2005 heart string-tugger Father's Day. And leave the girl, it's the man we want. But which one? Take your pick from the Seventh Doctor, Albert Einstein and Louis Pasteur for highbrow hijinks in 1987's Time and the Rani. Along the way, John wants to see everything, Jim wonders what could have been and Matt goes pink.

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The Invasion / Tooth & Claw / Destiny of the Daleks

Thu, 15 Feb 2018 10:29:17 GMT

Some scenes filmed in Tiger Bay, some set by the Silvery Tay, Daleks seek their glory day - Cybermen in Haringey! That's right, folks - hit us with your rhythm stick (aka sonic device) for this 31st episode of I'll Explain Later. Monopoly capitalism, camp sneering and Patrick Troughton more animated than usual in 1968 epic The Invasion. The Tenth Doctor and Rose encounter a beastie that's far from tim'rous in 2006 gothic horror romp Tooth and Claw. And disco derring-do from the pepperpots' most fearsome and nattily dressed foes in Terry Nation Douglas Adams-penned Fourth Doctor drama Destiny of the Daleks. Along the way, John tests his co-hosts' tolerance, Jim goes studs-up into the UNIT dating controversy and Matt talks cartoon underpants.

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Spearhead From Space / Human Nature / The Family of Blood / The Horror of Fang Rock

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 09:10:49 GMT

Sometimes, inspiration does just fall from the sky. This 30th I’ll Explain Later explores three mysteries centred on alien threats mistaken as meteorites. The Third Doctor goes topless in fashion-centric debut Spearhead from Space. Public school and planetary peril in 2007 two parter Human Nature/The Family of Blood. And Who does Hammer Horror, as the Fourth Doctor and Leela tackle the Horror of Fang Rock. Along the way, Matt bungs up, Jim is non-plussed and John fluffs his line.

Don't forget - listener drinks at The Blue Posts, 81 Newman Street, London W1T 3ET on Saturday 3rd February from 2pm. See you there!

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A Christmas Carol

Sun, 24 Dec 2017 01:00:00 GMT

Because what says Christmas like honeymoon-based sex cosplay? That’s right, I’ll Explain Later delves deep into St Nick’s bulging sack to pull out, parboil and roast 2010 Yuletide special A Christmas Carol. Jingling along the way, Jim pulls a cracker, Matt spills his port and John goes deep throated.

Have a very merry Christmas, and see you on 3rd February at the Blue Posts for our listener drinks!

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Frontier in Space / Planet of the Daleks

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 01:00:00 GMT

A December Dalek double as I’ll Explain Later heads back to 1973. A beleaguered leader inches towards a conflict with her trading allies she knows to be folly, egged on by forces internal and external and lacking the courage needed to face down the populist nonsense of her critics. Meanwhile, we review Frontier in Space. The Third Doctor asks for help from the Time Lords, who oblige by transporting him to a dangerous locale populated by conveniently invisible creatures and sexist militia. But we know it’s really the Planet of the Daleks. Along the way, Jim hits the student bar, John finds his third ear and Matt communes with his 10 year old self.

Save the date! We've got listener drinks on Saturday 3rd February from 2pm onwards at The Blue Posts on Newman St.

And check back on Christmas Eve for a little seasonal bonus...

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The Enemy of the World / Amy's Choice / Meglos

Wed, 15 Nov 2017 01:00:00 GMT

Double trouble for the Doctor and pals in this 28th episode of I’ll Explain Later. Troughton meets his match - literally - in recently discovered deadly doppelgänger demagoguery thriller The Enemy of the World. Frozen in lifeless, arid suspension...or dying of cold in the Tardis? Karen Gillan must act, fast, to make Amy’s Choice. And a Fourth Doctor copyist needles the Tigellans into showing him their dodecahedron in sci-fi horticulture favourite Meglos. Along the way, John vamps it up, Matt likes his chefs sarcastic and Jim wonders if we’re still recording.

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The Romans / The Hungry Earth / Cold Blood / Four To Doomsday

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 09:07:29 GMT

How many impossible things can you believe before breakfast? I'll Explain Later's 27th episode whisks you away to unimagined realms and mythical times. Tegan might not be well drawn, but her draughtswoman credentials are not in doubt. A smörgåsbord of cultures let bygones be Bigon as the Fifth Doctor takes Four to Doomsday. Incoming showrunner Chris "safe-hands" Chibnall once again nails a chilling dystopia with his uncanny depiction of a future economy in which a world-leading project can employ just four workers - and inept ones at that. No portentous voiceover can sate The Hungry Earth, nor warm Cold Blood. And meta machinations manifest massively, as First Doctor William Hartnell lands the Tardis on the sets of Ben Hur and Quo Vadis. With content so fantastic, surely it's churlish to question what The Romans have done for us? Along the way, John sets Jim straight, Jim goes pop and Matt polices firework safety.

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The Ark In Space / The Doctor's Daughter / The Faceless Ones

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 01:00:00 GMT

Doors to manual! The I'll Explain Later cabin crew are delighted to disembark you into three more terminals of Doctor Who adventure! No perfume counter and no flight-side 'Spoons, but one almighty immigration problem as the Fourth Doctor, Harry and Sarah Jane arrive at The Ark in Space. An overzealous border official goes beyond a cavity search and takes a skin sample, creating excess family baggage for inbound traveller David Tennant in The Doctor's Daughter. And Gatwick takes the starring role in charming Shirley Valentine origins story The Faceless Ones. Along the way, Jim scoffs at rumour, Matt likes a Troughton and John introduces Yankee Doodle Riker.

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The Sunmakers / The Sontaran Stratagem / The Poison Sky / The King's Demons.

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 01:00:00 GMT

Bikinis and budgie-smugglers at the ready, as the 25th episode of I'll Explain Later accompanies your summer break with another trio of tales!

Why have one when you can have two? A duo beating down on them, can Tom Baker and Louise 'Leela' Jameson ride out the heat and avoid the taxman in 1977 yarn The Sun Makers?

Oh no, it's clouded over! A typical British summer explored in harrowing depth over New Who Season 4 two-parter The Sontaran Stratagem / The Poison Sky.

And the Fifth Doctor and chums discover you can't sidestep bleedin' foreigners even on a staycation, encountering a pas probable foe in knightly nemesis Sir Gilles Estram. Lutes ahoy for The King's Demons!

Along the way, Matt worries about role models, Jim sings along and John muses on 23 years of hurt.

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Bad Doctor Who (Blue Box Podcast Special)

Sat, 15 Jul 2017 01:00:00 GMT

We're on a summer break so no new episode from us this month, sadly. However, to tide you over until our August return, here's a treat from our archives. Earlier this year we were thrilled to be invited to contribute to the spectacular 250th episode of JR Southall's Blue Box Podcast, and we recorded this minisode where we discuss what makes for Bad Doctor Who. Hope you enjoy it.

We'll be back in August looking at The Kings Demons, The Sunmakers and The Sontaran Stratagem/The Poison Sky. If you've got any comments on these stories, do get in touch via email, Twitter or Facebook as we'd love to include your thoughts alongside our reviews.

See you next month!

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The Chase / The Long Game / The Curse of Fenric

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 01:00:00 GMT

Roll up, roll up – pay your shilling to play the game as the 24th episode of I’ll Explain Later runs the gamut from intergalactic tag to the grandmastery of an existential chess match!

Hartnell & Co take in some costume dramas, dodge Daleks in their cardboard quantum coach and encounter anachronistically-named planets in 1965’s The Chase. Ninth Doctor Christopher Eccleston, Rose and him off Corrie battle the #fakenews media and need a run-in with the The Mighty Jagrafess of the Holy Hadrojassic Maxarodenfoe like a hole in the head in The Long Game. And the Seventh Doctor has barely more than Just a Minute to save the Northumbrian coast from zombie vampires and disturbingly erotic gusts of wind in 1989 favourite The Curse of Fenric.

Along the way, John is Alabamy bound, Jim almost names that tune and Matt gets a good deal at DFS.

As always, you can email us, tweet us and Facebook us with your comments - and don't forget to leave us an iTunes review!

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The Web of Fear / The God Complex / Warriors of the Deep

Mon, 15 May 2017 01:00:00 GMT

Shuffling shag, a horny monster - and the Myrka. I'll Explain Later once again waves its torch at Doctor Who where the sun's May rays don't shine. As much Midnight at the Lost and Found as Down in the Tube Station at Midnight - yes, we examine recently-discovered Second Doctor epic The Web of Fear. Only one man engenders sufficient faith to make us believe he can lead us with courage to see things we never thought we would. No, not Philip Morris this time! Matt Smith stars in The God Complex. And a Tory prime minister moves to dish her opponents with a snap election, throwing the best laid plans of mice and men into horrible chaos. That's right, the schedule's the biggest foe for the Fifth Doctor as he encounters the Warriors of the Deep. Along the way, Jim crosses swords with consensus, John conjures a corpse and Matt asks what makes a good wife.

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The Impossible Planet / The Satan Pit / The Mark of the Rani / The Creature From The Pit

Sat, 15 Apr 2017 01:00:00 GMT

Clocking on and plunging deep into the shaft, I'll Explain Later returns with a heavily accented "Trouble Down t'Pit" special. The Doctor dangles, as David Tennant and chums confront evil itself in The Impossible Planet / The Satan Pit. Tyneside tykes and wooden miming as the Sixth Doctor tries to rub off The Mark of the Rani. And we make all the obvious comments about Erato as Tom Baker grapples with The Creature from the Pit. Along the way, Matt embraces his inner Yorkshireman, Jim ponders whether we've met Lucifer and John posits an erotic setting of Wagner's oeuvre.

If you want EVEN MORE I'll Explain Later this month, we recommend you seek medical advice immediately. But you may find some short term relief with our guest appearance on Blue Box Podcast's 250th Episode, where we join the creme de la creme of the Doctor Who podcasting world to discuss everything under the sun.

And of course, do email us, Facebook us, tweet us and leave us a review on iTunes if you like the show.

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1st April Special

Sat, 01 Apr 2017 01:00:00 GMT

It's 1st April, so what better time to examine three more Doctor Who adventures that have flown under the radar.

Okay, so it's not the ACTUAL episode 22 - check back on 15th April for your regular dose of I'll Explain Later fun...

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The Pirate Planet / The Curse of the Black Spot / The Smugglers

Wed, 15 Mar 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Salty seamen and terrified cabin boys aplenty as we set sail for a pirate-themed 21st voyage aboard the good ship I'll Explain Later. The Fourth Doctor and Romana marvel at the Captain's massive spheres on The Pirate Planet. Plank or catwalk? Tough to tell, as Eleventh Doctor Matt Smith encounters fashion muse Lily Cole in The Curse of the Black Spot. Meanwhile, Hartnell and Co. dodge Brexity brigands in The Smugglers. Along the way, Skipper Jim proves he knows it all, Bosun Matt admires a strong female villain and Powder Monkey John talks wood.

Send us a yo ho ho via Twitter, Facebook or email if you have any comments - and if you like the show, an iTunes review is always most welcome.

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Terror of the Autons / New Earth / Arc of Infinity

Wed, 15 Feb 2017 07:51:59 GMT

Roses are red, police boxes are blue... In this twentieth, Valentine's edition of I'll Explain Later, The Third Doctor muses on tea ladies and gentlemen's clubs in Terror of the Autons, Ten and Rose mix feline and saline during visiting hours on New Earth and Peter Davison is not the first Brit to stagger around Amsterdam in a dazed state of collapse as he stars in universally-adored 1983 classic Arc of Infinity. Along the way, Jim salutes our imbibing listeners, Matt chews over a CSO kitchen and John asks if maybe he doesn't like 80s Who.

As always, tweet us, befriend us on Facebook or email us if you have any comments - and if you like the show, an iTunes review is always most welcome.

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The Time Meddler / The Talons of Weng-Chiang / The Eleventh Hour

Sun, 15 Jan 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Happy New Year! We start 2017 as we mean to continue, with three Doctor Who big-hitters. The First Doctor gets stuck into some Saxon violence in The Time Meddler, the Fourth Doctor smells a rat in The Talons of Weng-Chiang, and the Eleventh Doctor raids the fridge in The Eleventh Hour. Along the way, we admire the Meddling Monk’s methodical approach to task management, lock horns with a sacred cow, and weep for what could have been.

Don’t forget - listener drinks at The Blue Posts on Newman Street in London, Saturday 28th January, 3pm. Come and join us for a pint! Map here.

And if you can’t make it, do drop us a line via Twitter, Facebook or email, or leave us a review on iTunes - it’s very much appreciated.

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The Runaway Bride

Sat, 24 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

Christmas bonus time for I'll Explain Later listeners, as this second Yuletide edition materialises. With only sherry, port, stilton, cheddar, a selection of artisan-baked crackers, stollen and mince pies to sustain them, our gouty guides explore Tenth Doctor David Tennant's 2006 nixed-Noël-nuptials spectacular The Runaway Bride. Amid musings on Schrödinger's Doctor Who action figure and blue-blooded spuds, John pops his cork, Jim confronts curmudgeonly correspondence and Matt makes an empty gesture.

Thanks for all your support during 2016 - we'll be back in January with three more stories. In the meantime, have a great Christmas - and if you get the change, say hello on Facebook, Twitter, email or leave us a lovely review on iTunes.

And don't forget - listener drinks at The Blue Posts on Newman Street in London, from 3pm on Saturday 28th January. See you there!

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The Daleks' Master Plan

Thu, 15 Dec 2016 06:00:00 GMT

Joyful all ye Nation's guys! Nothing can exterminate the festive fun, as the I'll Explain Later crew encounter three podcasting poltergeists and take on sprawling Hartnell epic The Daleks' Master Plan. Lithium-fuelled cricket commentary and the cooling effects of a Panama titfer are just two of the fascinating topics of debate, while Jim casts a critical eye over spy-fi, Matt queries the quality of his central heating and John confronts his Moffat-mad nemesis.

Tweet us! Facebook us! Email us! Wish us a Merry Christmas via a review on iTunes! And keep listening for news of a bonus Christmas treat...

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The End of the World / The Time Monster / The Happiness Patrol

Tue, 15 Nov 2016 06:00:00 GMT

Don your mittens and light the sparklers as we run the Gallifreyan gamut from toxic to saccharine in I'll Explain Later's November display. The Ninth Doctor and Rose risk sunburn on a weekend break to The End of the World; The Master sucks on a stogie while Team Third Doctor tackle the origami ogre that is The Time Monster; finally, The Seventh Doctor and Ace are in three episodes of The Happiness Patrol. Along the way, we mull trees' animal magnetism, ponder the 70s salary high-point for actors portraying randy or rattled window cleaners and welcome John's calm, cool take on a universally adored McCoy classic.

As always, you can find us on Twitter and Facebook, and you can email us too. And please, do leave us a nice review on iTunes if you like the show.

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The Macra Terror / The Invisible Enemy / The Stolen Earth / Journey's End

Sat, 15 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMT

It's a seafood smorgasbord on this month's I'll Explain Later as we tuck in to three more thrilling Doctor Who adventures. The Second Doctor and pals hit Butlins during an outbreak of crabs in The Macra Terror, The Fourth Doctor and Leela get stuck into a prawn cocktail in The Invisible Enemy, while the Tenth Doctor catches up with pretty much everyone he's ever met in The Stolen Earth / Journey's End. Along the way, we cry over Donna's fate, mix metaphors with wild abandon and completely miss the opportunity to make a cheap John West / seafood joke.

Tweet us! Facebook us! Email us! And please leave us a review on iTunes, it makes us feel loved...

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The Visitation / Vampires of Venice / The Massacre

Thu, 15 Sep 2016 07:00:00 GMT

This month it's a triple history lesson as the Doctor and chums take a trip into the past. The Fifth Doctor reaches for the Mace in The Visitation, the Eleventh Doctor enjoys the fish in Vampires of Venice, and the First Doctor is seeing double in The Massacre (of St Bartholomew's Eve). Along the way, we considered whether the Fifth Doctor's TARDIS crew was a YTS scheme, ponder the baffling symbolism at the end of Vampires of Venice, and consider the ramifications of William Hartnell's holiday timing.

As ever, please tweet us, email us, Facebook us, leave us a review on iTunes and tell your friends - it really does help!

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The Ribos Operation / School Reunion / The Claws of Axos

Mon, 15 Aug 2016 06:00:00 GMT

We could have spent the August holidays outside enjoying the sun, but instead we spent it cooped up indoors watching Doctor Who in order to bring you our thoughts on three more adventures. This month, the Fourth Doctor's epic quest to find some perspex gets off to a thrilling start in The Ribos Operation, the Tenth Doctor has woman trouble in School Reunion, and the Third Doctor takes it on the Chinn in The Claws of Axos. Along the way, we get a little emotional over a tin dog, question whether Binro the Heretic was such a visionary, and approve whole-heartedly of Bill Filer's dress sense.

If you enjoy this episode, get in touch! Emails to hello@illexplainlater.com, tweets to @explainlaterpod, or Facebook at facebook.com/illexplainlater. And as always, please leave us a review on iTunes.

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The Krotons / The Time of Angels / Flesh & Stone / Resurrection of the Daleks

Thu, 14 Jul 2016 22:35:05 GMT

We're back! After taking a summer break last month, we put three more Doctor Who adventures under the microscope. This month, the Second Doctor's peddling acid to the locals in The Krotons, the Eleventh Doctor joins the clergy in The Time of Angels, while the Fifth Doctor watches the bodies pile up in Resurrection of the Daleks. Along the way, we hear about an extraordinary unmade episode, wonder why Turlough never does anything, and get to grips with perhaps the worst scene in broadcast Doctor Who ever. For the first time, we also feature some of your letters!

If you've got any comments you'd like to feature in an upcoming episode or if you just want to say hi, email us at hello@illexplainlater.com, tweet us, or drop us a line on Facebook. As ever, do keep the iTunes reviews coming as well - it all helps!

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The Edge of Destruction / 42 / The Deadly Assassin

Sun, 15 May 2016 10:04:02 GMT

The clock is ticking in this months selection of Doctor Who adventures that feature our favourite Time Lord in a desperate race against time. This month, the First Doctor and pals get a bit stir crazy during a quiet night in as they face The Edge of Destruction, the Tenth Doctor soaks up the sun in 42 and the Fourth Doctor visits the old folks at home in The Deadly Assassin. Along the way, we find out what the TARDIS has in common with Ryanair, hail the mighty Bernard Horsfall, and take stock of what we’ve learned so far after a year of watching Doctor Who together.

Thanks for listening to our first year of shows - as always, iTunes reviews are very much appreciated. And keep an eye on our Twitter feed and Facebook page for announcements about future stories we’ll be covering - we’d love to read out some listener letters on upcoming shows, so drop us an email on hello@illexplainlater.com if you have anything to say…

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The Silurians / Dragonfire / The Beast Below

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 09:00:00 GMT

This month, it’s a trilogy of subterranean Doctor Who adventures as we go beneath the surface. The Third Doctor tries to balance the scales in the confusingly-entitled Doctor Who And The Silurians; the Seventh Doctor’s left dangling in Dragonfire; and the Eleventh Doctor has a whale of a time aboard Starship UK in The Beast Below. Along the way, we learn how a friend of Jim’s was scarred by the cliffhanger to Dragonfire part 1, appreciate the Third Doctor’s white t-shirt and slacks, and encounter possibly the worst Doctor Who guest actor we’ve seen yet.

As always, if you’ve enjoyed this episode please share the love by leaving us a nice review on iTunes, dropping us an email or tweeting us to say hi - it always makes our day when we hear from listeners, so do get in touch.

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The Rescue / Planet of the Ood / Attack of the Cybermen

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 09:00:00 GMT

This month we endure six hours in make-up to bring you three Doctor Who adventures notable for their use of prosthetic masks (to varying effect). First up, it's off to the planet Dido [N.B. CHECK SPELLING], where the First Doctor makes a new friend, and Ian and Barbara are ready for cockylickin'. Then we drop by Oodsphere, where the Tenth Doctor and Donna encounter Spartacus with tentacles and a huge, ever-growing pulsating brain. And finally, a long-awaited return to Telos, where the Cybermen are getting nostalgic and Sarah Greene is encased in sticky-back plastic. Along the way, we ponder the UK space programme, what it's like to be at a dreary sales conference, and exactly what's wrong with Eric Saward's writing.

We'd love to hear your thoughts on these stories - do email us at hello@illexplainlater.com, tweet us via @explainlaterpod, leave a message on our Facebook wall, or use Tumblr's ask box. And if you like this episode, a nice iTunes review is very helpful and makes us feel good about ourselves.

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Tomb of the Cybermen / Terminus / The Waters of Mars

Sun, 14 Feb 2016 19:00:00 GMT

We celebrate Valentine’s Day the only way we know how - by putting three more Doctor Who adventures under the microscope. This month, the Second Doctor encounters something nasty in the freezer section in Tomb of the Cybermen, the Fifth Doctor finds himself stuck on on a spaceship that’s gone to the dogs in Terminus, and the Tenth Doctor has a wet’n’wild time with the Waters of Mars. Along the way, we speculate on other career options for the Garm, try to work out what a logician actually does, and admit we rather like Gadget The Robot. And it’s all wrapped up in a salute to our favourite real-life Time Lord, who sadly ran out of regenerations last month.

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The Leisure Hive / The Unquiet Dead / The Aztecs

Thu, 14 Jan 2016 10:30:00 GMT

Happy New Year! We kick off 2016 with three Doctor Who adventures that see an exotic mini-break go badly awry. A trip to Butlins-in-space sees the Fourth Doctor endure some mind-mangling entertainment in The Leisure Hive; the Ninth Doctor’s plans to visit Naples take a turn for the worse when he ends up dealing with a gas leak in Cardiff in The Unquiet Dead; and the First Doctor enjoys sex, drugs and Tlotoxl, Mexican-style, in The Aztecs. Along the way John gets to grips with the idea of Fixed Points In Time (TM), Matt makes a case for the Foamasi costumes as high art, and Jim explains how Redditch Carnival inflated his hopes for The Leisure Hive episode 4.

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The Feast of Stephen / The Christmas Invasion / Dimensions In Time

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 12:30:00 GMT

Merry Christmas! At this special time of year, we dig deep into our bulging sack to bring you three festive adventures for Doctor Who and chums. The First Doctor, Steven and Sara enjoy a seasonal Scouse runaround in The Feast of Stephen, the Tenth Doctor spends most of the day sleeping off the night before in The Christmas Invasion, and it’s Crinkley Bottoms all round as some ageing Doctors get their heads round brain-bending 3D panto Dimensions in Time. Along the way: wassailing, port, mince pies, Noel Edmonds, more port, the greatest Doctor Who tie-in book ever written, even more port, and a suggestion from Jim that’ll change the way you view Planet of the Spiders forever.

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The Masque of Mandragora / Midnight / Kinda

Sun, 15 Nov 2015 18:00:00 GMT

"I do love a knees-up!"

This month, we look at three occasions where the Doctor and chums are menaced by disembodied threats. The Fourth Doctor teams up with a bunch of renaissance men in The Masque of Mandragora, the Tenth Doctor eats his words in Midnight, while the Fifth Doctor gets a treat AND a surprise in Kinda. Along the way, John reminds us of a 90s deodorant advert, Matt recalls being creeped out by some Doctor Who trading cards, and everyone nearly comes to blows over Kinda.

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The Gunfighters / Daleks in Manhattan / The TV Movie

Thu, 08 Oct 2015 08:00:00 GMT

"This is an ambulance!!"

This month: three Doctor Who adventures set in America but (for the most part) filmed elsewhere in the world. We look at the First Doctor's rootin' tootin' adventure at the OK Corral with The Gunfighters, the Tenth Doctor's porcine encounter with Daleks In Manhattan, and the Eighth Doctor's attempts to stave off the millennium bug in, er, Doctor Who (aka The TV Movie). Along the way, Jim reveals all about his one visit to a Doctor Who convention, Matt turns out to be a terrible house guest, and John charms us with a song. Contains strong language from the start!

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Evil of the Daleks / The Crimson Horror / Ghost Light

Tue, 08 Sep 2015 11:00:00 GMT

"Tricky things, mammoths."

In our fourth show, we take a trip back to 19th century England for three slices of Victoriana, Doctor Who style. This month we go through the looking glass with Patrick Troughton for Evil of the Daleks, see Matt Smith get tickled pink by the Crimson Horror, and scratch our heads while Sylvester McCoy is dazzled by Ghost Light. Along the way, Jim reveals who he’d choose as a companion over Victoria, Matt berates modern Doctor Who for not being bad enough, and John fondly remembers ITV’s adaptation of Moll Flanders.

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Time-Flight / Mummy on the Orient Express / Planet of the Spiders

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 11:00:00 GMT

"Sharaz, sharaz tumal! Balor, balor!”

This month, we look at three Doctor Who adventures linked by the theme of transportation - the Fifth Doctor’s jet-setting thrill ride Time-Flight, the Twelfth Doctor’s encounter with a Mummy on the Orient Express, and the Third Doctor’s meditative swansong Planet of the Spiders. Along the way we update our log of occasions where Sarah Jane does some actual journalism, pause to reflect on the versatility of David Bamber, and find out what Jim was doing when he heard that Princess Diana had died.

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The War Machines / Aliens of London / World War Three / Invasion of the Dinosaurs

Thu, 09 Jul 2015 07:40:00 GMT

"Kklak!"

In our second episode, we look at three adventures set around contemporary London, taking in the First Doctor computer thriller The War Machines, gassy Ninth Doctor runaround Aliens of London, and the Third Doctor puppet extravaganza Invasion of the Dinosaurs. Along the way, we consider the politics of the Third Doctor, whether farting is empirically funny or not, and whether Dr Who is required.

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The Horns of Nimon / Love & Monsters / The Twin Dilemma

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 12:05:00 GMT

"Where's the mucus??"

In our very first episode, we attempt to redeem three underrated or controversial Doctor Who adventures - the Fourth Doctor's camp Greek holiday The Horns of Nimon, the Tenth Doctor's run-in with his own appreciation society Love & Monsters, and the Sixth Doctor's genteel and understated debut The Twin Dilemma. Along the way, we speculate on the practical benefits of the Nimon modesty skirts, marvel at Jackie Tyler's taste in music, and wince at Jim's recollection of watching The Twin Dilemma with a neighbour.

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