Steven Moffat Explains Ruby’s Cameo in Doctor Who Christmas Special and Its Connection to a Classic Companion’s Departure

Please note that the following article contains spoilers for the “Joy to the World”Christmas special of Doctor Who.

Millie Gibson’s Surprise Cameo in Doctor Who’s Christmas Special

The recent Doctor Who Christmas special for 2024 featured a captivating surprise appearance by Millie Gibson, who portrayed Ruby Sunday. In the 2023 Christmas special, Ruby was introduced as a child abandoned on a church doorstep, yearning to learn the identity of her biological mother. Despite traveling through various historical and futuristic settings, she bid farewell to Ncuti Gatwa’s Fifteenth Doctor during the season 14 finale.

Insights from Steven Moffat and Russell T Davies

In an exclusive interview with Screen Rant, Steven Moffat provided compelling insights regarding Ruby’s unexpected cameo in the final montage of the Christmas episode. Although the concept was not present in early discussions, Moffat and Russell T Davies spent significant time contemplating the dynamics of the Doctor’s relationships. Moffat ultimately decided to showcase Ruby observing the new star, suggesting that her journey with the Doctor was incomplete—unlike the definitive departures of other companions like Amy Pond and Rory Williams.

Moffat: I didn’t know I was going to do it at the beginning, but we had conversations about why the Doctor wouldn’t get in touch with Ruby while he was stuck in London for a year, or in touch with the many, many friends he has there. He’s got a bloody office there, for God’s sake, and we just came to the conclusion that he doesn’t do that. He’s just not that guy. He doesn’t go looking for help. He lets people get on with their lives and potters along by himself.

But I thought about Ruby, and then I thought when the star is shining down at the end, she should see it too. If you look at the way it ended, their relationship didn’t really end at the end of the previous episode. It doesn’t end as a relationship at all. Sometimes, like in The Angels Take Manhattan, that’s the end for him, Amy Pond, and Rory. But that was not an end; that was goodbye for now, so she’s out there.

Both Moffat and Davies lightheartedly acknowledged that—given the choice—they would have revisited all 63 previous companions.

Davies: Let’s face it Steven, if we had our way, we’d have cut all 63 companions even! [laughs]

Moffat: It’s true, it’s true! [laughs]

Examining Ruby’s Departure and Future in Doctor Who

The Return of a Beloved Companion in 2025

In “Joy To The World,”the Fifteenth Doctor contemplates reaching out to Ruby while awaiting her call during his time in London. Despite his hesitation, he speaks fondly of her to Anita (Steph de Walley), ultimately finding the resolve to act. Notably, Ruby has been leading an active life, forging connections beyond her time with the Doctor.

Both the Eleventh and Fifteenth Doctors have experienced moments where they distanced themselves from companions after grappling with the fear of failing to protect them. However, Ruby appears to have thrived, indicated by footage from the Doctor Who season 15 trailer, showcasing her involvement with UNIT and her leadership during critical situations.

Reflections on Ruby’s Role in the Series

Potential Parallels and Implications for the Future

Long-time fans of Doctor Who may notice intriguing parallels between Ruby’s narrative and that of Amy and Rory. Both Doctors underwent transitions where they left companions behind after losing faith in their safety. A seasonal adventure often prompts each Doctor to seek a new ally to accompany them on their journeys.

With Moffat highlighting the parallels between Ruby and previous companions, many viewers may harbor concerns over her fate in season 15. As Gibson prepares to share the TARDIS with a new companion, Belinda Chandra (Varada Sethu), the dynamics are likely to present fresh challenges and storylines.

As the Whoniverse continues to expand, the impact of Ruby’s character and her connections with the Doctor promise to engage fans, inviting speculation about her future adventures.

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