David Tennant’s 10 Best Episodes As the Tenth Doctor
David Tennant graced our screens as the Tenth Doctor on the beloved British television series “Doctor Who” from 2005 to 2010. His tenure is fondly remembered for its charismatic performances and captivating storytelling, featuring episodes that have since become fan favorites. Here, we list ten of Tennant’s best episodes that encapsulate his time as the iconic Time Lord.
1.”The Girl in the Fireplace” (Series 2, Episode 4)
Innovatively blending science fiction with historical drama, this episode sees the Tenth Doctor form a poignant connection with Madame de Pompadour while unraveling the mystery of clockwork droids in 18th-century France.
2.”Blink” (Series 3, Episode 10)
Though Tennant has limited screen time in “Blink,” it is a testament to his impact that his presence is so keenly felt. This Hugo Award-winning story introduces the terrifying Weeping Angels and cements itself as a cornerstone of Doctor Who lore.
3.”Human Nature/The Family of Blood” (Series 3, Episodes 8-9)
A two-part story displaying Tennant’s impressive range as he plays a version of the Doctor who has made himself human to hide from alien pursuers. The emotional depth and complexity of these episodes are standout moments for Tennant.
4.”Silence in the Library/Forest of the Dead” (Series 4, Episodes 8-9)
In another two-part episode, Ten faces off against the chilling Vashta Nerada while meeting River Song for his first time – though not hers – creating a layered narrative that resonates throughout his tenure and beyond.
5.”Midnight” (Series 4, Episode 10)
This claustrophobic thriller strips away all elements of the traditional Doctor Who formula, isolating Tennant’s character without his companion or TARDIS and showcasing his exceptional acting chops.
6.”Turn Left” (Series 4, Episode 11)
This “Doctor-lite” episode explores an alternate reality where Donna Noble never met the Doctor; however, its powerful storytelling earns it a spot on this list as it underscores the significance of Tennant’s Doctor across universes.
7.”The Stolen Earth/Journey’s End” (Series 4, Episodes 12-13)
Featuring the return of several characters from previous series and spin-offs, this epic two-parter culminates in apocalyptic stakes, dramatic confrontations with Davros, and heartbreaking goodbyes.
8.”The Waters of Mars” (2009 Specials)
An intense and morally complex episode where the Tenth Doctor’s “Time Lord Victorious” persona comes to life, showing both the strengths and dangerous potential of his character.
9.”The End of Time: Part One & Two” (2009-10 Specials)
Tennant’s swan song as the Tenth Doctor sees him facing an array of enemies including The Master and Time Lords resurrected from Time War infamy. His poignant end line “I don’t want to go” reverberating through time for fans everywhere.
10.“School Reunion” (Series 2, Episode 3)
Reuniting with classic companions Sarah Jane Smith and K9 against a school run by aliens disguised as humans provides both nostalgic reverence and showcases Tennant’s capacity for bridging classic and new-era Who.
These episodes collectively demonstrate why David Tennant’s turn as The Tenth Doctor has been so cherished by fans and firmly etched into television history.