Russell T Davies, the showrunner of the iconic British sci-fi series ‘Doctor Who’, has strongly defended the show’s progressive direction, particularly highlighting the casting of trans actress Yasmin Finney. This move signals a significant step towards greater diversity and representation in the series.
Celebrating Trans Representation in Sci-Fi
Finney, known for her role in ‘Heartstopper’, joins ‘Doctor Who’ as Rose Noble, Donna Noble’s daughter, making her debut in the show’s 60th-anniversary episodes. Her casting is notable not only for being a trans character but also for Finney’s identity as the first Black trans woman in the show’s long history. Davies, while expressing pride in this historic casting, also issued a stern warning to detractors who oppose the inclusion of a trans character.
Davies’ Vision for a Progressive Series
Davies, also the creator of ‘It’s a Sin’, emphasized his and other writers’ commitment to reflecting a more diverse society in their work. He lauded Finney’s casting as almost serendipitous, considering the limited pool of actors who fit the character’s unique profile. However, he acknowledged the presence of hate and intolerance towards such progressive steps and condemned those attitudes.
A Queer-Focused 14th Series
The 14th series of ‘Doctor Who’, premiering on Christmas Day, is set to be the most inclusive yet, featuring Rwandan-Scottish actor Ncuti Gatwa as the 15th Doctor. The series will also include notable guest stars like Jonathan Groff, Pete MacHale, and Jinkx Monsoon from ‘Drag Race’. This casting aligns with the show’s trajectory towards representing diverse narratives within its fantastical universe.
Finney’s Role as a Trailblazer
Yasmin Finney, at only 20 years old, sees her role in ‘Doctor Who’ as part of her mission to effect positive change and provide representation for the queer community. Her perspective as a young, Black trans woman in a major media production offers a fresh, affirmative portrayal of trans identities, something she hopes will inspire and empower queer individuals globally. Finney’s presence in ‘Doctor Who’ not only breaks barriers but also paves the way for more inclusive storytelling in mainstream media.