At the heart of this enduring saga of Doctor Who lies the enigmatic characters that keep the series going. These characters make the show intriguing for the viewers. The Doctor’s adventures are always filled with some of the most interesting companions.
Besides these characters, other characters properly develop the storyline further. Ranking the characters from the series is not an easy task, as each character brings forth unique qualities. These characters contribute to the show’s rich tapestry. So, let’s dive right in.
Note: This article reflects the author's personal opinions.
Top 10 Doctor Who characters, ranked
10) The War Doctor played by John Hurt

The main reason The War Doctor is one of the best characters in Doctor Who is due to John Hurt. He represents the timeline where pacifist ideals were seemingly abandoned in the face of unimaginable horror. John Hurt has conveyed the immense burden of such an important moment in a nuanced manner.
The journey toward acceptance is truly memorable for viewers. John Hurt gave a voice to the character that highlighted The War Doctor’s enduring strength and commitment. The War Doctor was a vital piece of the puzzle that viewers enjoyed solving.
9) Missy played by Michelle Gomez

Missy’s character undoubtedly brought a unique and fresh perspective to the storyline of Doctor Who. Though initially, Missy’s real identity is not known to the viewers, it is later revealed that she is an incarnation. Her name is the shortened version of Mistress.
From the very first moment she arrives in the series, she captures the viewers' attention. Her storyline contributed immensely to the overall intrigue of the story. Especially if we consider Missy’s interaction with Clara.
As she reveals that she has created an afterlife which can store the consciousness of dead people using the Gallifreyan Matrix Data Slice, the storyline further complicates.
Missy’s eventual death is also a brilliant depiction of the story. She is a character with intellect and manipulative tendencies.
8) Amy Pond played by Karen Gillan

Amy and Rory’s relationship in Doctor Who is truly one of a kind. Besides, her interactions with the Doctor also added to the overall intrigue. Amy’s life was intertwined with the extraordinary.
From her childhood, her experiences shaped her character. Amy’s character brings a sense of familiarity to the viewers. Her everyday concerns with her job and relationships made her a relatable character.
Amy’s story is one of growth, and her character has been developed in a nuanced manner in the series. She is undoubtedly one of the best characters in Doctor Who. Karen Gillan has done a commendable job playing her character. Amy’s vibrant and complex nature left an indelible mark on the viewers of the series.
7) Rose Tyler played by Billie Piper

Rose becomes the Doctor’s travelling companion and quickly becomes one of the most intriguing characters of the series. It cannot be denied that she was a gateway back into the Doctor’s world for a whole new generation.
Her relatability as a character makes her one of the best in Doctor Who. From the very first moment when she helps out the doctor from an invasion of Earth, she became an indispensable character to the viewers.
Throughout the series, she has faced numerous challenges. Even though she had her own set of flaws, it was a characteristic that made her more than a one-dimensional character.
6) Leela played by Louise Jameson

Yet another intriguing character in the Doctor Who universe. Throughout the series, Leela has been through a lot. From fighting against homunculi to the Sontaran invasion, she has given us numerous interesting plotlines.
These plotlines have become integral to the viewers. Her relationship with the doctor is one of the most unique in the series. Their interactions are filled with humor and genuine affection.
Her spirit and energy bring forth a fresh perspective for the viewers. In a show filled with such brilliant characters, Leela’s character does stand out.
5) The Ninth Doctor played by Christopher Eccleston

Just like the viewers have enjoyed Rose’s character, her interactions with the Ninth Doctor are intriguing. When the Ninth Doctor shows Rose the destruction of Earth, it becomes a compelling plotline.
Besides, the moment when he saves Captain Jack Harkness from his self-sacrificial plans adds a layer of complexity to his character. The raw emotions that he carries throughout are truly remarkable.
It is a defining feature of his character. Christopher Eccleston deserves all the credit. His performance as the Ninth Doctor is commendable.
4) Ace played by Sophie Aldred

Ace quickly became one of the most interesting characters in the series. Her storyline and the explosion that caused her to travel to the future are unique.
She takes up Mel’s place in the Doctor’s life. Even though she suffered throughout her childhood, she turned out to be a reliable companion for the Doctor. Her resourcefulness shone through. Her weapon choices were also very unique and suited her tough exterior well.
Ace’s depth and vulnerability made her a compelling character. The Doctor recognized her potential and became her mentor figure. He guided her through the ups and downs.
Ace’s reaction to the bizarre and terrifying situations felt genuine to the viewers. Her transformation from a troubled child to a confident and capable young woman is truly memorable.
3) Jack Harkness played by John Barrowman

Jack Harkness is one of the most intriguing companions of the Ninth Doctor. His zest for life is truly commendable. He approaches every adventure with a playful grin and a positive attitude, which the viewers have enjoyed.
He is also fiercely loyal to the Doctor. Jack trying to take the unexploded bomb into his ship makes an intriguing part of the storyline. Jack Harness is a type of character who embodies both light and darkness.
He also embodies resilience and vulnerability. Jack Barrowman’s performance as Jack Harkness makes the character even more unforgettable.
2) Donna Noble played by Catherine Tate

Donna Noble and the Doctor’s dynamic was a much-needed plotline for the viewers. She starts to change when she understands she is being manipulated by her fiancé.
Her true nature is depicted slowly, especially when she defends the Ood. Her compassion is a key element of her character. She understood the cost of the adventures and the challenges.
Her storyline depicted her immense potential and the forged connection with the Doctor. Donna is, without a doubt, one of the best characters in the series.
1) Tenth Doctor played by David Tennant

The Tenth Doctor is an intriguing character in the series. He is known for his whirlwind of energy, charm, and underlying intensity. The quick wit is truly a remarkable aspect of his character.
This charming character kept the viewers intrigued throughout the series. His regeneration is also an intriguing aspect of his character. His adventures, especially when he saved Queen Victoria from the werewolves and when he saved the Earth from an impending crash, are memorable plotlines for the series.
David Tennant brings a refreshing take on the character.
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