WARNING: SPOILERS Ahead for the 2024 Doctor Who Christmas Special: “Joy to the World.”Esteemed writers Steven Moffat and Russell T. Davies reveal intriguing details about this latest installment and what fans can anticipate in the cherished BBC series. Following the impactful introduction of Ncuti Gatwa as the 15th Doctor in 2023, the adventure continues with his newest Christmas special, introducing unique twists and complex narratives that viewers have come to expect from this iconic show.
The 2024 Christmas Special, titled Joy to the World, features a new character named Joy, portrayed by Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan. Seeking refuge from the holiday season, Joy checks into a hotel in London. However, her plans take a wild turn when she accidentally stumbles upon the Time Hotel, embroiling her in a whirlwind of time travel chaos. Together with the Doctor, the duo must unravel an urgent mystery as time rapidly slips away.
Prior to the Christmas Special, an insightful discussion took place between ScreenRant and Moffat and Davies, the masterminds behind the revival of Doctor Who. They delved into the creative process behind crafting “Joy to the World,”explaining their approach to conceptualizing these holiday specials and how Coughlan was cast in this unique role. During the conversation, Moffat and Davies hinted at how this episode will lay the groundwork for the Doctor’s forthcoming season, teasing the return of a familiar face.
Russell T. Davies & Steven Moffat Discuss the 2024 Christmas Special
ScreenRant: When developing the upcoming Christmas Specials, do you both reference previous installments to determine how to raise the stakes?
Russell T. Davies: Honestly, we keep them in mind without needing to revisit them. We’re both tremendous Doctor Who fans!
Steven Moffat: For me, it’s easier to look back at classic Doctor Who than our own. I’m perhaps not as good at it! But we know what has already been done.
Russell T. Davies: Exactly! We’re aware of the episode structure and necessary elements. Doctor Who already has a Christmas-y quality; a bit of snow is essential! I believe there should be a rule mandating snowfall in every Christmas Special. It definitely shouldn’t be set during a summer vacation! Writing these specials is truly a pleasure, and I’m thrilled to craft another one.
Russell T. Davies & Steven Moffat on Casting Nicola Coughlan for the 2024 Christmas Special
“There’s a lot of work to be done to weave her in and out of that Bridgerton schedule.”
It’s exciting to see Nicola Coughlan join Doctor Who! Did you create this role specifically for her, or was it part of the casting process?
Steven Moffat: Initially, I wrote it without a specific actor in mind, but Russell, who suggested Nicola, can elaborate.
Russell T. Davies: Our casting director Andy Pryor directly mentioned that we shouldn’t audition Nicola; it was just an offer! While some actors audition, we often directly invite established talent. Coordinating with her schedule—given she’s also working on Big Mood—required considerable effort from our casting director. Thankfully, this worked out!
As a light-hearted thought, are there any other prominent Bridgerton stars you would want to include in the Doctor Who universe?
Russell T. Davies: We’ve already included several, like Adjoa Andoh and Jonathan Bailey. I’d happily bring Jonathan back anytime—any actress from that series would be a fantastic addition!
Steven Moffat Discusses Joy’s Inspirational Conclusion in the 2024 Christmas Special
“She actually becomes Christmas, instead of hiding in a hotel away from Christmas.”
I appreciated how Joy symbolically became the Star of Bethlehem, intertwining a well-known historical narrative with her character.
Steven Moffat: That wasn’t our initial plan. Originally, the Doctor was supposed to throw a briefcase into space, creating a spectacular effect over Bethlehem. But it became irresistible to turn Joy, who initially wanted to escape Christmas, into a figure that spreads joy everywhere instead.
She transforms from hiding away to embodying Christmas, even aiding her mother—an uplifting story connected to the Time Hotel and the Doctor’s influence.
It is lovely that her last line encourages the Doctor to seek companionship rather than solitude. However, we know he isn’t always good at taking advice. How long until he fully embraces her message in the next season?
Russell T. Davies: He essentially fails and stays alone forever! [laughs] It’s a beautiful transition Steven crafted. As we write, the audience is aware of the forthcoming characters and developments; Varada Sethu’s introduction as Belinda Chandra is on the horizon.
Steven Moffat: I’m unsure about what comes next!
Moffat & Davies Discuss Ruby’s Cameo in the 2024 Christmas Special
“That was goodbye for now, so she’s out there.”
Fans are eager to know about Ruby’s cameo—can you shed more light on this, as it hints that her story isn’t finished yet?
Steven Moffat: We didn’t plan for her appearance initially, but it became essential to explain why the Doctor wasn’t in touch with Ruby or any of his friends while in London for a year. It’s just how he operates; he allows others to continue their lives while he meanders alone.
But when the star shines at the end, Ruby, too, sees it. Their relationship isn’t concluded; it’s simply a “goodbye for now” moment.
Russell T. Davies: If we had it our way, we might’ve squeezed in all 63 companions! [laughs]
About the Doctor Who Christmas Special 2024: “Joy to the World”
Watch the trailer here
As Joy enters a London hotel, she uncovers a hidden doorway to the Time Hotel, leading her through a realm of danger, dinosaurs, and encounters with the Doctor. A threatening plot unfolds just in time for Christmas!
The Doctor Who Christmas Special 2024 is available for streaming on Disney+ and BBC.
Related Articles:
Doctor Who 2024 Christmas Special: Steven Moffat & Nicola Coughlan Discuss Ending and Joy’s Fate
1:53
Steven Moffat Explains Ruby’s Cameo in Doctor Who Christmas Special and Its Connection to a Classic Companion’s Departure
23:28
Impact of Joy’s Final Words in Doctor Who’s 2024 Christmas Special on the Fifteenth Doctor’s Future Explained by RTD: “It’s A Beautiful Handover”
22:39
Leave a Reply