Doctor Who may be navigating an uncertain future, but its past is getting a remarkable second life. The BBC has just dropped an animated version of The Savages, a four-part serial from 1966 that was long thought lost forever. Now, fans can experience this early adventure on iPlayer, complete with the original audio from William Hartnell, the very first Doctor.
This release is a treasure for Whovians, especially those who love the classic era. The Savages originally aired during the show's third season, with Hartnell's Doctor and companions Steven Taylor (Peter Purves) and Dodo Chaplet (Jackie Lane) journeying to a distant future. There, they encounter two groups: the peaceful, artistic "Savages" and the advanced "Elders," who claim to have built a utopian society. But the Doctor soon uncovers a horrifying secret—the Elders sustain their civilization by draining the life force from the Savages. It's a chilling twist that raises timeless questions about the cost of progress and the ethics of power.
What makes this release so significant is the story's history. During the 1960s and 70s, the BBC routinely wiped and reused videotapes, leading to the loss of countless classic episodes. The Savages was among those casualties, with no complete footage surviving. For decades, it existed only as audio recordings and a few stills. But now, thanks to animation, the story has been fully restored visually, allowing a new generation to experience it.
The restoration is part of a broader effort to recover lost Doctor Who episodes. Sue Malden, a former BBC archivist, recently expressed hope that more missing programs might surface. "It fills me with optimism that there is the possibility now of finding more, maybe not just Doctor Who, but other great television programmes that are missing," she told Radio Times. While some episodes remain lost forever, animation has become a powerful tool to bring them back to life.
This isn't the first time Doctor Who has used animation to restore missing stories, but The Savages stands out as a prime example of how the technique can preserve the show's legacy. It also highlights how the series has always woven social commentary into its sci-fi adventures. The Doctor's discovery of the Elders' exploitation is a stark critique of colonialism and inequality, themes that remain relevant today. And the ending, where Steven chooses to stay behind to help the Savages rebuild, is a poignant reminder of the show's emotional depth.
For those eager to explore more of the Whoniverse, The Savages is now streaming on BBC iPlayer. And if you're curious about the future of the franchise, you might want to check out the preschool spin-off TARDIS Crew, which is also exploring animation. Meanwhile, fans are already speculating about the show's 2028 return, which could take inspiration from other hit series.
The revival of The Savages is a testament to Doctor Who's enduring appeal. Even with parts of its history missing, the show continues to captivate audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this animated restoration is a must-watch. It proves that the Doctor's adventures are timeless, and that even lost stories can find a way back to us.
