Doctor Who Showrunner RTD Honors Bernard Cribbins In His Final ...

Doctor Who showrunner has put together a fond farewell for Bernard Cribbins after his final episode on the show. Cribbins first appeared in 2007's "Voyage of the Damned" as an excitable man named Wilf who immediately gets attached to David Tennant's Doctor. Wilf would continue his bond with the Doctor for years, until Cribbin's posthumous appearance on the show in the second of three recent specials, "Wild Blue Yonder". Cribbins himself died July 27, 2022 at 93 years old.

The 60th Anniversary specials have been an opportunity for Doctor Who to say goodbye to many prominent cast members, and Cribbins' appearance was no different. In a show of appreciation for the actor's contribution to the modern era of the show, showrunner Russell T. Davies put together a touching Instagram post honoring Cribbins. Check it out below:

In the post, Davies describes just how excited Cribbins was to return to the series. While he was only able to film one short scene, he still touched the hearts of the cast and crew. Davies laments Cribbins' death and professes his love for the actor and man.

Besides the Doctor, companions are the characters who often leave a lasting legacy. They are the ones who travel with the Doctor, change his world, and influence his entire perspective on humanity. Few family members make an indelible mark, especially considering that they are often left to handle the affairs of the companions while they are gone. It is understandable that their role would be limited, given that every Doctor Who companion leaves their family for one reason or another.

Wilf was different. Despite being Donna's grandfather, Wilf was a constant part of the show. Anytime the Doctor saw him, he was fully and emphatically proud to be the grandfather of the Doctor's companion. He was not even resentful when Donna lost her memories and nearly her life. Instead, he was always proud to work with the Doctor.

After Cribbins' death, the show has lost a prominent face. If Wilf ever appears again, he will have to be played by another actor, much like how David Bradley took over William Hartnell's role as the First Doctor. Cribbins' time on the show is officially over. In this last showing by Cribbin's Wilf, Davies offered the opportunity for Cribbins to say goodbye to Doctor Who and to show Wilf's enduring legacy.

Source: Russell T. Davies / Instagram