Doctor Who enthusiasts were left in tears as Bernard Cribbins made an unexpected cameo appearance in the series’ ultimate television scene
Renowned entertainer passes away mere weeks following the filming of an anniversary special.
Doctor Who enthusiasts were left emotional as the late Bernard Cribbins made his final on-screen appearance in the second anniversary special episode.
A revered figure in entertainment, Cribbins passed away in July 2022 at the age of 93. His return to the Doctor Who set for the anniversary specials shortly before his demise left fans uncertain whether scenes featuring his character, Wilfred Mott, the grandfather of Catherine Tate’s Donna Noble, had been filmed prior to his passing.
In the episode titled “The Star Beast,” the first installment of the trilogy commemorating 60 years of Doctor Who and featuring David Tennant’s return as the Doctor, it was disclosed that Wilfred was indeed alive.
The poignant moment occurred towards the end of the second episode, “Wild Blue Yonder,” when the Doctor and Donna returned to London after their escapades. Wilf, positioned in a wheelchair, awaited them outside the Tardis.
“Oh my goodness, Donna!” exclaimed Wilf upon seeing his granddaughter, to which she affirmed, “I said so.” The Doctor, sporting a grin, leaned out of the Tardis, greeted Wilf, who appeared taken aback by the unexpected encounter.
(BBC)
“Wilfred Mott,” the Doctor said with relief, drawing the old man into an embrace. “Now I feel better. Nothing is amiss in the entire wide world.”
“Hello, old soldier,” he greeted Wilf, who responded, “I never imagined seeing you again after all these years. Oh, Doctor, that comforting face. It’s like springtime… I knew it, never lost faith. I said, ‘He won’t let us down. He’ll return and rescue us.'”
Perplexed, the Doctor inquired, “Rescue us from what?” Chaos unfolded—food stalls ignited, planes crashed. “It’s everyone, it’s everything,” Wilfred informed the Doctor amidst blaring sirens and panicked screams. “They’re all losing their minds. Listen, Doctor, you have to act. The world is collapsing.”
The concluding scene, setting the stage for the final anniversary episode “The Giggle,” evoked an emotional response from viewers. On social media, many admitted to “bursting into tears” the moment Cribbins graced the screen.
Never has this GIF been an more accurate representation of my mood. Bless you Bernard Cribbins. One last trip for Wilf. pic.twitter.com/PgnfTBo9Zw
— jasper ✨🏳️⚧️ (@NotASpaceRock) December 2, 2023
“Bernard Cribbins reprised his role as Wilfred Mott in Doctor Who for a single scene before passing away a few weeks later. ‘Oh, you bet I’ll be crying,’ remarked one commenter.
A tweet expressed, ‘We witnessed an acting masterclass with David and Catherine, culminating in the appearance of the incredible Bernard Cribbins. I knew I’d be in tears seeing him for the last time, and I was.’
Another viewer shared, ‘Bernard Cribbins was just beautiful. This scene alone made the entire show worth it.’
Expressing gratitude, a fan on Twitter/X wrote, ‘I’m thrilled that Bernard Cribbins had the chance to embody Wilf one final time. I might have had something in my eye.'”
Me seeing Bernard Cribbins at the end of Dr Who #WildBlueYonder pic.twitter.com/mnUNoY70St
— TERRI🔪🩸 (@Miss_Terreh) December 2, 2023
One tweet emotionally expressed: “Bernard Cribbins. That’s all. That tweet encapsulates the depth of emotion for me throughout 2023, and perhaps well into 2024.”
Reflecting on the significance of Bernard Cribbins’ final engagement with the cherished television series, a devoted fan remarked, “We are fortunate that Bernard Cribbins concluded his illustrious career on our beloved ‘Doctor Who.’ Yet, it’s heart-wrenching that he’s not here to witness the enduring love for both himself and Wilf.”
David Tennant, discussing the backstage scene during the companion show ‘Doctor Who: Unleashed,’ expressed his overwhelming joy upon learning of Cribbins’ return.
Cribbins himself commented, “I haven’t retired; it’s a taboo term. I’m simply not selected as frequently as before, being 93 now. So, let’s keep the fuss to a minimum.”
Showrunner Russell T Davies expressed profound gratitude, stating, “It’s been one of the greatest joys of my life that Bernard returned to us for what turned out to be his final scene, marking the end of his illustrious career.”
“While our desire was to have him do more, his health didn’t permit it. However, the completion of that one scene fills me with absolute joy,” Davies added.
Catch the next episode of Doctor Who on Saturday, 9th December at 6:30 pm on BBC One.
