In Praise Of The Moff: On The Legacy Of Doctor Who's Departing Showrunner

Abstract

Steven Moffat, creator of BBC's Sherlock and showrunner of Doctor Who from 2010 to 2017, is a controversial figure whose work - although extremely popular - tends to divide both fans and academics, not to mention aca-fans (fan scholars) and casual viewers. Criticised for, among other things, his (mis)representation of women and the complexity of his plotting, he has also been praised for taking risks and for writing some of the most acclaimed episodes in Doctor Who history, including the 50th anniversary special of 2013, 'The Day of the Doctor'. This short article reflects on Moffat's achievements as he prepares to leave the showrunner role.