The Doctor keeping us in the dark - How Dr Who proved secrets can still be kept from social media
Doctor Who, a much-loved series by many, it could even be called intrinsic to most families weekly viewing. With its popular twists and turns, we follow the time-lord there and back again. Fun for children and adults alike, from die-hard fans to occasional viewers, it generally keeps any audience captivated. But how did this show, which is forever poked and prodded for any spoilers, manage to keep its biggest plot line yet under wraps?
The mini-episode which usually only alludes to the fun and fantasy of the next episode, this week, had a major plot line reveal. If you have not yet seen it, view it here.
Now you have watched it, there is no fear of a spoiler. As seen in the first minute of this episode, Paul McGann shows up unexpectedly as the Doctor (again). Within the six minutes we truly get value for time when another Doctor is revealed; highly acclaimed John Hurt will play not only the Doctor... but now a warrior.
The shows 50th Annivesary is being celebrated on November 23rd and is being eagerly anticipated. The mini-episode is a prequel to 'The Day of The Doctor' which is to honour the momentous occasion.
It seems all social media, and the media in general, have been looking too far ahead and not what was possibly under their nose. Is this the Doctor Who team being cunning and exploiting this naivety? I think its a very clever strategy and one that has clearly worked this time.
Stephen Moffat, the shows writer, must be very pleased with himself and his team for keeping this explosive episode quiet. Usually hounded for new material, this has seemingly slipped through the net.
Moffat is a wonderful writer and the cast look like they are really going to deliver on this. This is not to mention the entire team that make these shows come to life and keep us entertained. There are so many sources that can easily let information slip and no end of people ready to get it and publish it online.
It has just proven that although social media seems to be in all areas of our lives, it is not. With enough effort and loyalty it can work and work well. Myself, like many others, are excited to see 'The Day of the Doctor' and I hope any more plot twists are kept just as quiet.
Are you a Doctor Who super fan? Do you feel social media can be mediated to stop spoilers?
Faye Cannon
Faye Cannon is Content Writer for Social Media Frontiers Ltd. Having an academic background in English and Creative Writing, she now blogs for SMF about the latest trends and social media topics.
The Doctor keeping us in the dark - How Dr Who proved secrets can still be kept from social media
![]()
Reviewed by Anonymous
on
Friday, November 22, 2013
Rating:
Anonymous
Keeping you up to date on social media, digital marketing, apps, news & reviews. Social media, and digital marketing as a whole, are rapidly and constantly changing, adapting to new developments at an ever increasing rate. Just keeping up to date can be a nightmare. Our team of writers know their field, and keep an ear to the ground. We aim to keep you informed of all recent developments in the online world, and teach you a little something along the way. So whether you just want to stay connected, or gain some knowledge for yourself, the Social Songbird will keep on singing! More articles are posted every day so keep checking back! Join the discussion on Twitter - #SocialSongbird Or contact us directly - @SocialSongbird_
Entrepreneur, international speaker on Social Media Marketing. First one in the UK to write and speak in conferences about Twitter as a marketing tool. Consultant to Corporate Companies, Government Organizations, Marketing Managers and Business Owners.
Aspiring novelist with a passion for fantasy and crime thrillers. He hopes to one day drop that 'aspiring' prefix. He started as a writer and soon after he was made Executive Editor and Manager of the team at Social Songbird. A position he held for 5 years.
Adrienne is a passionate writer with experience in editing, content creation, and social media marketing. She’s a lover of animals, helping others improve their writing, and 2000s pop culture.
Musician, audio technician, professional tutor and a Cambridge university English student. Interested in writing, politics and obsessed with reading.
Recently graduated with a BA in English Literature from the University of Exeter, and he is about to study an MA in Journalism at the University of Sheffield. He is an aspiring journalist and novelist; in his free time he enjoys playing chess, listening to music and taking long walks through nature.
Lucy is an undergraduate BSc Politics and International Relations student at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Anna Coopey is a 4th year UG student in Classics at the University of St Andrews in Scotland. She is a keen writer and researcher on a number of topics, varying from Modern Greek literature to revolutionary theory.
Ellie is a recent BA English Literature graduate and aspiring publisher with a passion for writing. Her favourite pastimes include reading and shopping.