3) Bill Potts
This year has been terrific for diversification in Doctor Who. Not only did the BBC respond to what a lot of fans wanted by hiring an actress to play the Doctor, but they also cast a woman of colour to portray the first ever gay female companion.
As winningly played by newcomer Pearl Mackie, Bill Potts is set to only stick around for this year’s season 10, but she’s so good that she’s been instantly adored by fans. After a few seasons of complex storylines that often cut into characterization, Bill came as a breath of fresh air. She was hugely relatable: a sci-fi savvy student who asked all the questions the viewers ask when watching the show.
Like many companions, she also received a bittersweet ending. Although horrifically upgraded into a Cyberman, Bill’s soul (kind of) was able to survive and see the stars with the ghost (kind of) of her former flame Heather.
She may not be returning for season 11, but we look forward to her final appearance in the upcoming Christmas special.