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Paul McGann's popularity as the Eighth Doctor stems from a combination

of factors, some related to his limited television appearances

and others to his extended life in Big Finish audios and other media.

Here's a breakdown of why fans love the Eighth Doctor:



Charisma and Vulnerability: McGann brought a youthful charm

and vulnerability to the Doctor. He captured the wonder

and excitement of exploring the universe while also portraying

a Doctor recovering from a traumatic regeneration.

This blend of enthusiasm and emotional depth resonated with viewers.



The Unfulfilled Potential: The Eighth Doctor's limited television run

(a movie and a pilot) left many fans wanting more. This "what if"

scenario fueled his popularity, creating a sense of intrigue

and a desire to see more adventures with this Doctor.



A Big Finish Triumph: Where television left off, Big Finish picked up.

Their extensive library of Eighth Doctor audio adventures

allowed McGann to fully explore the character. These stories showcased

his wit, bravery, and the complexities born from his unique regeneration

experience.



A Romantic Doctor?: The Eighth Doctor sparked debate with his on-screen

kiss in the television movie. While some found it controversial,

others saw it as a sign of the Doctor's evolving emotional capacity,

paving the way for future incarnations to explore romantic relationships.



Action Hero with a Heart: The Eighth Doctor wasn't afraid to get his

hands dirty. He was resourceful and courageous, facing threats with

determination. However, he never lost sight of his compassion,

always striving to protect the innocent and find peaceful solutions.



A Bridge Between Eras: Similar to McCoy's Seventh Doctor, the Eighth

Doctor bridges the gap between classic and new Who. He carries

the weight of past regenerations while hinting at the darker secrets

of the Time Lords, a theme fully explored in the revived series.



Despite the limited television appearances, Paul McGann's portrayal

of the Eighth Doctor captured the hearts of fans. His charisma,

vulnerability, and the rich tapestry of stories explored in Big Finish

solidify him as a cherished incarnation in Doctor Who lore.

"Doctor Who: The Gunfighters" is a four-part serial from the third season

of the original Doctor Who series, broadcast in 1966. Set in the Wild West

town of Tombstone, Arizona, this story sees the Doctor and his companions

caught up in the events leading to the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.



Part 1:

"The Gunfighters: A Holiday for the Doctor" sets the stage for the Wild West

adventure. It introduces viewers to the town of Tombstone and its colourful

characters while establishing the conflict that will drive the plot.

The comedic tone and catchy ballad provide a lighthearted start to the serial.



Rating: 7 out of 10



Part 2:

"Don't Shoot the Pianist" sees the tension in Tombstone escalate

as the Doctor and his companions become embroiled in the events leading

up to the fateful gunfight. The humour continues to shine through,

but the stakes are raised as the danger intensifies.



Rating: 7.5 out of 10



Part 3:

"Johnny Ringo" ramps up the drama as the confrontation between the Earps

and the Clantons looms closer. The Doctor finds himself mistaken

for the notorious Doc Holliday, adding an extra layer of intrigue

to the storyline. The pacing remains steady, and the performances

are solid throughout.



Rating: 8 out of 10



Part 4:

"The O.K. Corral" delivers the climactic showdown between the Earps

and the Clantons, culminating in the infamous gunfight. The tension

is palpable as the Doctor and his companions race against time to prevent

bloodshed. The resolution is satisfying, bringing the serial to a satisfying

conclusion.



Rating: 8.5 out of 10



Overall, "Doctor Who: The Gunfighters" is an entertaining

and well-executed serial that successfully blends historical

drama with the signature humour of the series. While it may not be among

the most iconic Doctor Who stories, it remains a charming and enjoyable

adventure that captures the spirit of the Wild West.



Average Rating: (7 + 7.5 + 8 + 8.5) / 4 = 7.75 out of 10