Former Doctor Who star Matt Smith has recently defended the beloved sci-fi series against cultural attacks whilst expressing concerns about the use of trigger warnings in television.
The actor, who portrayed the Eleventh Doctor from 2010 to 2014, has claimed that trigger warnings risk “dumbing down” modern material.
Smith expressed bewilderment at those who criticise Doctor Who on cultural grounds, stating: “People that attack Doctor Who blow my mind.
“It’s about an alien who is cool and travels around the universe saving civilisations – what’s not to love?”
The 41-year-old actor also voiced apprehension about the increasing use of trigger warnings in media, suggesting they may be “dumbing down” television content.
Smith elaborated on his concerns by stating: “It’s OK to feel uncomfortable or provoked while looking at a painting or watching a play, but I worry everything’s being dialed and dumbed down.”
He questioned the practice of forewarning audiences, asking: “Isn’t being shocked, surprised, stirred the point?”
The actor expressed reservations about the impact of such warnings on storytelling. “We’re telling audiences they’re going to be scared before they’ve watched something,” he said.
Smith continued to the Times: “Too much policing of stories and being afraid to bring them out because a climate is a certain way is a shame. I’m not sure I’m on board with trigger warnings.”
These comments reflect a growing debate in British media about the balance between content warnings and creative freedom.
Smith’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about Doctor Who’s recent creative direction. The actor acknowledged the show’s broad appeal, noting “nobody knew” who he was until he was cast in the role.
He expressed pride in his involvement with the series, stating: “I feel very proud to have been in the show.”
Smith also addressed the recent controversies surrounding the casting of Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor. As the first Black man to play the role, Gatwa has faced racist abuse, while some viewers have criticised the show’s inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes.
The actor dismissed these debates, saying: “Those debates reduce it to a place that it doesn’t need to be in.”
Smith’s career has evolved significantly since his time on Doctor Who. He currently stars as Daemon Targaryen in HBO’s fantasy drama series, House of the Dragon, with the second season having recently concluded on Sky and HBO
The actor’s journey in television began in 2006 with roles in BBC adaptations of Philip Pullman’s works. His breakthrough came as the Eleventh Doctor in Doctor Who, a role that catapulted him to fame.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Jeremy Clarkson admits ‘he’s too old and fat to get into the cars that I like’ as Grand Tour endsJK Rowling unleashes furious rant at ‘cheat’ trans athlete after Paris Paralympics inclusionChannel 4 The Last Leg blasted for reaction to trans Paralympian participation
Smith has also garnered critical acclaim for his portrayal of Prince Philip in Netflix’s The Crown, earning a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.
Several high-profile projects have incorporated trigger warnings in recent times, with even iconic spy James Bond failing to avoid its clutches.
More recently, the new Channing Tatum thriller Blink Twice hit headlines for forewarning its viewers about the potentially distressing scenes in the film.
