Since the beginning of the British
science fiction television series
Doctor Who in 1963, many actors have played the title character of
The Doctor on television and in various
BBC-licensed
spin-offs on television, stage, radio, film, audio plays and webcasts. The character's ability to periodically regenerate his appearance and personality has facilitated the ability of new actors to take over the role – in both official and unofficial productions – while in most cases maintaining continuity with the television series.