RDC-Torchwood:Everything Changes

Martyn, Chris and Abi discuss the first episode of Torchwood. 

In the first episode, aptly titled “Everything Changes,” viewers are introduced to a universe that exists alongside Doctor Who.

“Everything Changes” begins in the bustling city of Cardiff, where a chance encounter thrusts Gwen Cooper, a dedicated police constable, into a clandestine world beyond her wildest imagination. As Gwen investigates a puzzling murder case, she stumbles upon Torchwood, an enigmatic group led by fan-favourite Captain Jack Harkness.

Captain Jack Harkness and his team operate outside the conventional boundaries of law and order, dedicated to protecting humanity from extraterrestrial threats and supernatural occurrences. Torchwood’s diverse ensemble cast includes the tech-savvy Toshiko Sato, the medical expert Owen Harper, and the resourceful Ianto Jones. Together, they form an unconventional yet formidable team with unique skills and their own complex dynamics.


Through Gwen’s eyes, viewers discover a hidden side of Cardiff, where extraordinary events and unexplained phenomena are woven into the fabric of everyday life. The episode immerses audiences in a city filled with secrets, blurring the lines between the ordinary and the extraordinary.


As Gwen becomes entangled with Torchwood, she grapples with the shocking revelation that aliens exist among us. “Everything Changes” unveils the covert battles fought by Torchwood, exploring the complexities of their mission and the sacrifices made to protect humanity. Friendships are forged, loyalties are tested, and the very nature of reality is questioned.

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5 reasons why Doctor Who fans should watch Torchwood

Doctor Who has been one of the most popular science fiction TV shows in the world for decades. With its time-traveling adventures and quirky characters, it has captured the hearts of fans of all ages. However, many fans of the Doctor may not be aware of another amazing show set in the same universe: Torchwood.

Torchwood is a spin-off from Doctor Who that first aired in 2006. The show takes place in Cardiff, Wales and follows a team of investigators who work for the Torchwood Institute, a secret organisation that investigates extraterrestrial phenomena and defends the Earth against alien threats. The team is led by Captain Jack Harkness, a charming and enigmatic time-traveler who first appeared in Doctor Who.

For Doctor Who fans who haven’t yet given Torchwood a chance, here are a few reasons why you should:

  1. Torchwood expands on the Doctor Who universe

One of the best things about Torchwood is that it explores the Doctor Who universe in more depth. While Doctor Who focuses on the adventures of the Doctor, Torchwood takes a closer look at the impact of the Doctor’s actions on the world around him. The show also introduces new creatures and technologies that haven’t been seen in Doctor Who before.

  1. Torchwood is more mature and darker than Doctor Who

Doctor Who is known for its family-friendly tone, but Torchwood takes a darker turn. The show tackles more mature themes like sex, death, and politics, making it more suitable for an older audience. Torchwood also isn’t afraid to take risks, with unexpected plot twists and character developments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

  1. Torchwood has a diverse and dynamic cast

The Torchwood team is made up of a diverse group of characters, each with their own unique personalities and backgrounds. Captain Jack is a pansexual time-traveler who can’t die, while Gwen Cooper is a former police officer who becomes embroiled in the world of Torchwood. The team also includes Toshiko Sato, a brilliant scientist, and Ianto Jones, a former coffee boy who becomes an integral part of the team.

  1. Torchwood has some of the best writing and acting on TV

The writing, although there are some clunkers in series 1, and acting on Torchwood are mostly top-notch. The show’s writers weren’t afraid to tackle complex and controversial issues, and the actors bring their characters to life with nuance and depth. John Barrowman’s performance as Captain Jack is particularly noteworthy, as he brings a sense of humour, charm and a real darkness to the role while also portraying the character’s emotional depth.

In conclusion, Torchwood is a must-watch for any Doctor Who fan. The show expands on the Doctor Who universe, takes a darker and more mature tone, has a diverse and dynamic cast.

Here are some outstanding Torchwood episodes:

  1. “Countrycide” (Season 1, Episode 6) – The team investigates a series of brutal murders in a rural village and soon realises that the culprits are not human.
  2. “Children of Earth” (Season 3, Episodes 1-5) – In this five-part miniseries, an alien race demands that Earth gives them 10% of its children or face annihilation. The Torchwood team must make impossible choices to save the world.
  3. “Adrift” (Season 2, Episode 11) – Gwen investigates the disappearance of people who have been snatched by the Rift and discovers the heartbreaking truth about what happens to them.
  4. “Captain Jack Harkness” (Season 1, Episode 12) – Captain Jack and Tosh find themselves stranded in 1941 during the London Blitz and must find a way back to the present.
  5. “Exit Wounds” (Season 2, Episode 13) – The Torchwood team faces their deadliest enemy yet as Captain John Hart (played by James Marsters) returns with a plan to destroy the team and the entire city of Cardiff.

These episodes showcase the diverse themes and storytelling that make Torchwood such a standout series in the Doctor Who universe.

The Importance of Companions in Doctor Who

Since its debut in 1963, Doctor Who has been a sci-fi television phenomenon, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide. The show’s longevity and success can be attributed in large part to the iconic companions who have traveled through time and space with the Doctor.

These companions serve not only as the Doctor’s trusted allies but also as a human perspective on the fantastical universe of Doctor Who. In this post, we’ll explore the crucial role companions play in the show, how their characters have evolved over time, and some of the most memorable companions to date.

Section 1: The Role of Companions in Doctor Who

Companions serve as our window into the world of Doctor Who, allowing us to experience the adventure and wonder of the show through their eyes.

Companions as grounding agents: As an alien time traveler, the Doctor can sometimes seem removed from humanity. Companions help him stay grounded and relatable by providing a human perspective and emotional connection.

Doctor Who often tackles complex themes like love, loss, and loyalty. Companions provide a relatable human element to these themes, giving them emotional weight and depth.

Section 2: The Evolution of Companions in Doctor Who

Doctor Who began with Susan, Ian, and Barbara, who served primarily as passive observers.

Over time, companions have become increasingly integral to the show’s plot and character development. In recent years, the show has become more diverse and inclusive in its portrayal of companions. We’ve seen characters of different races, genders, and sexual orientations, bringing a broader range of perspectives and experiences to the show.

Today’s companions are far more than just passive observers. They’re integral to the show’s plot, often driving the action and making key decisions.

Section 3: Memorable Companions in Doctor Who

Sarah Jane Smith is undoubtedly one of the most beloved and iconic companions in Doctor Who history. Portrayed by the late Elisabeth Sladen, Sarah Jane was first introduced to the series in 1973 as a journalist investigating the mysterious goings-on at a nuclear research center. From there, she became a recurring character, traveling with both the Third and Fourth Doctors and quickly establishing herself as a fan favourite.

What made Sarah Jane so special was her intelligence, her bravery, and her unwavering moral compass. She was never content to sit on the sidelines and watch the Doctor do all the work – instead, she was always eager to get involved, using her investigative skills and quick thinking to help save the day. Sarah Jane was also an incredibly empathetic character, always putting the needs of others first and standing up for what was right, even when it was difficult or dangerous.

After her time on Doctor Who came to an end, Sarah Jane went on to star in her own spinoff series, The Sarah Jane Adventures. The show followed Sarah Jane as she continued her adventures in the world of aliens and time travel, and introduced a new generation of fans to the character. Sadly, Elisabeth Sladen passed away in 2011, but her legacy lives on through her iconic portrayal of Sarah Jane.

Overall, Sarah Jane Smith is a true legend in the Doctor Who universe, a character who exemplifies everything that makes the show so special – intelligence, bravery, empathy, and a sense of wonder and adventure. Her impact on the series and on fans around the world cannot be overstated, and her memory will continue to inspire and delight viewers for generations to come.

Donna Noble was a standout character in the world of Doctor Who, brought to life by the talented actress Catherine Tate. With her quick wit, sharp tongue, and no-nonsense attitude, Donna quickly became a fan favourite. Unlike many other companions who may have been in awe of the Doctor, Donna was never afraid to challenge him and push back against his sometimes overbearing personality. This made for a dynamic and entertaining relationship between the two characters.

In addition to her comedic timing and strong personality, Donna’s backstory was also a key aspect of her character development. In the episode “Turn Left,” it was revealed that Donna’s life had been shaped by a chance encounter with the Doctor, which led to her experiencing a series of traumatic events. This backstory added depth and complexity to the character, showing how her experiences had shaped her into the person she was when she became the Doctor’s companion.

Donna’s friendship with the Tenth Doctor was a highlight of the show’s fourth series. The two characters had a special bond that was different from the Doctor’s relationships with other companions. They challenged each other, supported each other, and shared a deep respect and affection for one another. This was evident in their final scenes together in the episode “Journey’s End,” where the Doctor erased Donna’s memories to save her life. The scene where Donna tearfully pleads with the Doctor to not make her forget their time together is a poignant moment that showcases the strength of their bond.

Overall, Donna Noble was a standout character in the Doctor Who universe, with her comedic timing, strong personality, and dynamic relationship with the Tenth Doctor making her one of the most memorable companions in the show’s history.

Amy Pond was one of the most beloved companions in the history of Doctor Who. As a character, Amy was complex and multifaceted, with a rich backstory that was central to her personality and motivations. Her childhood encounter with the Doctor, where he promised to return but failed to do so for many years, led her to develop a strong sense of abandonment that would shape her relationships with others throughout her life.

Karen Gillan’s portrayal of Amy was masterful, capturing both the character’s fiery determination and her underlying vulnerability. Her chemistry with Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor was electric, with their playful banter and undeniable chemistry making them one of the most memorable pairings in the show’s history.

Amy’s eventual departure from the show in the episode “The Angels Take Manhattan” was a heartbreaking moment for fans, as she and her husband Rory were sent back in time and forced to live out their lives in the past. The scene where the Doctor reads Amy’s final message to him, in which she tells him that she lived a happy life and that he should always remember her as the girl who waited, is a tear-jerking moment that still resonates with fans today.

Overall, Amy Pond was a pivotal character in the Doctor Who universe, with a backstory and personality that made her one of the most interesting and compelling companions the show has ever seen. Her impact on the Eleventh Doctor and the show as a whole will not be forgotten anytime soon.

Captain Jack Harkness: Captain Jack (played by John Barrowman) is an incredibly important character in the Doctor Who universe. Introduced in the 2005 reboot of the series, Jack quickly became a fan favourite due to his charismatic personality and his ability to add humour and lightness to even the darkest of situations. However, Jack’s significance goes beyond his entertainment value. He is a complex character with a unique backstory and a deep understanding of the dangers and responsibilities that come with time travel. As a result, Jack often serves as a moral compass for the Doctor and his companions, challenging them to think critically about the consequences of their actions. Additionally, Jack has his own series, Torchwood, which explores themes of secrecy, morality, and the consequences of power. All of these factors make Jack Harkness an integral part of the Doctor Who universe and a character whose impact will continue to be felt for years to come.

Section 4: Big Finish Companions

Big Finish is a production company that has been producing licensed Doctor Who audio dramas since 1999, featuring both classic and new series Doctors and their companions.

Big Finish has created a number of original companions, including Evelyn Smythe, who traveled with the Sixth Doctor in a series of audio dramas.

Evelyn, played by the late Maggie Stables, was a history professor who brought a unique perspective to the show. Her intelligence and no-nonsense attitude made her a fan favorite and added an extra dimension to the Sixth Doctor’s character.

Other notable Big Finish companions include Charley Pollard, who traveled with the Eighth Doctor and has since made appearances in other Big Finish productions, and Bernice Summerfield, who originally appeared in the New Adventures novels and has since become a staple of Big Finish’s Doctor Who universe.

Big Finish companions have become beloved additions to the Doctor Who universe, expanding on the show’s mythology and giving fans even more ways to experience the adventures of the Doctor and his companions.

Conclusion:

The companions of Doctor Who are more than just sidekicks; they’re an essential part of the show’s success. Their role has evolved from passive observers to active participants, and their diversity and complexity have made them relatable and memorable. As the show continues to evolve and change, we can expect to see even more diverse and compelling companions, each bringing their own unique perspective to the universe of Doctor Who.

Captain Jack removed from Time Fracture event

The creators of Doctor Who: Time Fracture have made the decision to no longer include John Barrowman’s Captain Jack Harkness, as part of their immersive experience premiering in London later this month. Barrowman had filmed the cameo a couple of weeks ago.

This decision comes after The Guardian broke news about allegations surrounding Noel Clarke. After the article was published, social media users started sharing videos of Barrowman’s former castmates talking about his on-set antics.

Immersive Everywhere said:

“Immersive Everywhere has taken the decision to remove this pre-record from Doctor Who: Time Fracture. We will continue to include content that pays tribute to this brilliant show that is Torchwood so as not to disappoint its fans, and are working on an exciting storyline to be announced soon.”

After he was contacted by The Guardian journalists, Barrowman said:

“With the benefit of hindsight, I understand that upset may have been caused by my exuberant behaviour and I have apologised for this previously. Since my apology in November 2008, my understanding and behaviour have also changed.”

Doctor Who: Time Fracture opens 26 May. Tickets are available for pre-order here.

David Tennant to guest on Torchwood audio

Following his return in the Doctor Who episode “Revolution of the Daleks,” John Barrowman’s Captain Jack is set to make a comeback in the Big Finish Torchwood range, marking its fiftieth episode. This special release will also make history by featuring a Doctor for the first time in the spin-off series, with David Tennant making a guest appearance as the Tenth Doctor. The audio drama will also include fan-favourite Gareth David-Lloyd as Ianto Jones.

This exciting news is sure to thrill fans of both Doctor Who and Torchwood, as the beloved characters and actors reunite for this milestone event. With Barrowman’s infectious energy, Tennant’s impeccable timing, and David-Lloyd’s poignant portrayal, this audio drama promises to be a treat for the ears and the heart.

As Big Finish continues to expand the universe of Doctor Who and its spin-offs through audio dramas, this special release is a testament to the enduring legacy and popularity of Torchwood, and the timeless appeal of the Doctor’s adventures.

Anyone who has read my reviews will know that I think Torchwood on Big Finish is Torchwood at its very best, so I’m ridiculously excited by this news.

John Barrowman said: “Fans have been asking for this for a long time. Now that it’s okay and it’s been cleared, it’s great to have him on board. There’s an interesting dynamic going on here because Jack still wants to follow him but yet wants to impress on him that he’s still the leader.”

David Tennant added: “Because this isn’t a Doctor Who story, the Doctor doesn’t have to be ahead of everything and saving the day. What’s interesting about this story – from the Doctor’s point of view – is he sort of messes up. It’s a story about the Doctor being a bit imperfect which is nice to see now and again actually.”

Torchwood: Absent Friends is now available to pre-order as a collector’s edition CD at £10.99 or on download from the Big Finish website at £8.99.

https://youtu.be/Z9Go6ytqc_E

Big Finish review-Torchwood:Serenity

Welcome to Serenity Plaza, the most prestigious gated community in South Wales. Jack and Ianto have been sent on an undercover mission to investigate rumors of something sinister happening within its walls. The catch? They have to pretend to be a happy, married couple.

As they delve deeper into the seemingly perfect world of Serenity Plaza, Jack and Ianto begin to face the everyday challenges that normal couples do: sharing household chores, participating in the residents’ baking contest, and vying for the title of Best Kept Lawn. But this is no ordinary competition – this is Serenity Plaza, and some residents are willing to go to extreme lengths to come out on top.

James Moran, writer of the series 2 episode “Sleeper,” has crafted a sequel that builds upon the original threat and adds new layers of complexity. With clever writing that plays to the strengths of the audio medium, Moran has created a logical continuation of the story.

Fans of the popular Jack and Ianto relationship will delight in their interactions here, as John Barrowman and Gareth David-Lloyd showcase their chemistry and comedic timing. Ianto’s Stepford Wife-like behavior and exaggerated Welshness add to the hilarity of the situation.

Overall, Torchwood: Serenity is a laugh-out-loud adventure that will keep fans of the series thoroughly entertained. Don’t miss out on this exciting audio drama!

Torchwood: The Green Life

At first it seems like Captain Jack Harkness, leader of the ‘beyond the police’ Torchwood organisation and time-travelling Doctor Who companion turned eco-warrior Jo Jones (née Grant) would be quite a contrast when paired. But in ‘Torchwood: The Green Life’ the two are bound as much by what they share as what divides them.

Jo, in this story, is decades older than the girl who once travelled with The Doctor. Everything she learned from her time with UNIT is sewn into this Jo of today and much more besides. This woman is a good match for the immortal Jack, whose dashing young appearance only partially conceals how much of his strength is devoted to enduring a string of painful deaths and centuries. Big Finish audio dramas never shy from the role appearances play in stories when it’s relevant: here we have a pair of lovely fan favourites set amid some gruesome situations.



We’re back in Llanfairfach, the Welsh locale of the 1970s Doctor Who serial, The Green Death. The story then – of pollution-bred giant maggots and a technically-adept evil corporation – continues here. As Jack and Jo clamber over old territory we learn new things about them both.

Katy Manning has kindly returned to play Jo now and again in the past couple of decades – in television and in audio – and each time we get a hint or two about the character’s life since the 1970s. Here there’s quite a bit of her back story, particularly with regards to Llanfairfach. It’s a treat to hear the world of Jo Jones expanding into a mini-franchise of its own.

John Barrowman has been equally generous in his support, for the Torchwood franchise and for the ‘Whoniverse’ in general. He continues his regular contributions to Torchwood on audio here, with a bit of a new challenge: the gentlest members of Jack’s team were never as ‘right on’ as lovely Ms Jones. In Jack’s world, he and his go to some rather harsh extremes, they take their lumps and then find some way to make peace with themselves afterwards. Jo presents him with a world where there are certain lines that are simply not crossed. Where right and wrong don’t often intermingle. Where loyalty is everything.

The legacy elements of this story are taken in genuinely new directions. We get some detail about how the scientific advances of the 70’s Wholeweal community have developed in the years since. We learn a bit more about Llanfairfach as a population centre and its lifestyle in 2019. And we’re presented with something new that has gone very, very wrong. It’ll certainly inform a listener’s first real-world glimpse of a self-driving lorry.

Big Finish Review-Torchwood:Believe

The Church of the Outsiders is on a mission to lead mankind to a new era of evolution, one that takes them beyond the stars. But Torchwood’s Owen Harper believes they must do everything in their power to stop them. With the original Torchwood team back together in full-cast audio, fans have been eagerly awaiting this moment. Despite the actors recording their parts separately, the result is flawless. You won’t be able to tell the difference, and it’s a joyous reunion.

Set before the end of series 2, Guy Adams has perfectly captured the era, creating an episode that feels like it was plucked straight from 2008. The performances are outstanding, with John Barrowman, Eve Myles, Burn Gorman, Naoko Mori, and Gareth David-Lloyd all shining. Each character is given the opportunity to develop, but the Owen/Tosh relationship is a particular highlight. Owen pushes Tosh to do unspeakable things while attempting to prove himself as a capable leader.

John Barrowman’s performance in this audio is absolutely fantastic. Despite recording his parts separately from the rest of the team, his chemistry with his co-stars is still palpable. He effortlessly slips back into the role of Captain Jack Harkness and delivers a performance that is both charming and commanding. Barrowman’s energy and enthusiasm for the character and the series shine through in every line, making it a real treat for fans to hear him back in action as the iconic Torchwood leader.

Prequel stories can be challenging, but Guy Adams’ script and Gareth David-Lloyd’s performance are so compelling that there’s one moment in particular where you’ll be genuinely concerned for Ianto’s fate. With such high quality, 2018 is shaping up to be an excellent year for Torchwood on audio. This is a must-listen, earning a 10/10 rating.

Review-Torchwood: The Death of Captain Jack

Torchwood: The Death of Captain Jack is difficult to review, without spoiling. So, I won’t be discussing the storyline.

This is a very ambitious audio, from David Llewellyn who once again proves himself to be one of the greatest writers Torchwood has ever had. He perfectly manages to encapsulate the history of Jack and John and give the Torchwood franchise a fresh new spin, all within an hour-long adventure. It’s an absolute joy. James Marsters absolutely shines as Captain John Hart and, instantly reminds us why he was so popular amongst Torchwood fans. He’s the perfect foil to John Barrowman’s Captain Jack.

There’s also a slight dig at Torchwood: Miracle Day.

Director Scott Handcock and producer James Goss have their awesomely unique style all over this release. Torchwood on Big Finish is the best Torchwood has ever been. They just get it, it’s ambitious, it’s loud, it’s sexy and over the top. Which is just how it should be.

10/10.

Torchwood contains adult material and may not be suitable for younger listeners.

Big Finish Review-Torchwood: Aliens Among Us-Part 2

Torchwood: Aliens Among Us 2 is a bold and gripping addition to the Torchwood series. Picking up where Miracle Day left off, the Torchwood team finds themselves in a Cardiff that’s darker and more dangerous than ever before. The four episodes included in this set explore complex storylines and pack an emotional punch, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating what comes next.

The first episode, “Love Rat” by Christopher Cooper, sets the tone for the rest of the set with a complex storyline that brings Captain Jack back from the dead with a surprising twist. The subsequent episodes, “A Kill to a View” by Mac Rogers, “Zero Hour” by Janine H Jones, and “The Empty Hand” by Tim Foley, continue to up the ante with a mix of action, drama, and suspense.

The addition of Yvonne Hartman to the mix adds a layer of intrigue and excitement, with the Torchwood team facing their toughest challenge yet. The writers skillfully weave together the various storylines, and the performances by the cast are top-notch.

The standout episodes of the set are “A Kill to a View” and “Zero Hour,” which delve into the mysterious rift and bring back fan-favourite character Bilis Manger. Murray Melvin’s performance as Manger is nothing short of exceptional, adding depth and complexity to the character and the story.

Overall, Torchwood: Aliens Among Us 2 is a must-listen for fans of the series and newcomers alike. With its intricate plotlines, strong performances, and cliffhanger ending, it leaves the audience eagerly anticipating the next instalment of the Torchwood saga.

⭐⭐⭐⭐