Matt Smith vs. Peter Capaldi

Attribute	Matt Smith	Peter Capaldi
Age	38	63
Height	5'11"	6'0"
Doctor Who Series	11th	12th
First Appearance	"The Eleventh Hour"	"Deep Breath"
Number of Episodes	44	40

Introduction

When it comes to the iconic role of the Doctor in the long-running British television series Doctor Who, two actors that have left a lasting impact on fans are Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi. Both actors brought their own unique style and interpretation to the character, making them beloved by Whovians around the world. In this article, we will compare and contrast the attributes of Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi as the Doctor.

Physical Appearance

Matt Smith, known for his youthful appearance and towering height, brought a fresh and energetic vibe to the role of the Doctor. His signature bowtie and quirky fashion sense became synonymous with his portrayal of the character. On the other hand, Peter Capaldi, with his older and more distinguished look, brought a sense of gravitas and wisdom to the role. His sharp features and piercing gaze added a new dimension to the character, making him stand out from his predecessors.

Acting Style

When it comes to acting style, Matt Smith is known for his dynamic and eccentric portrayal of the Doctor. He brought a sense of childlike wonder and enthusiasm to the role, making the character both endearing and unpredictable. Peter Capaldi, on the other hand, is known for his intense and brooding performance. He brought a darker and more complex edge to the character, exploring the Doctor's inner turmoil and moral dilemmas in a way that had not been seen before.

Character Development

Throughout his tenure as the Doctor, Matt Smith's character went through a significant amount of growth and development. From the youthful and carefree Eleventh Doctor to the more mature and introspective version of the character in his later seasons, Smith's Doctor evolved in a way that resonated with fans. Peter Capaldi's Doctor, on the other hand, started off as a more aloof and distant figure, but gradually softened and became more compassionate as his journey unfolded. His character arc focused on themes of redemption and forgiveness, adding depth to the character.

Companions

One of the key aspects of the Doctor's character is his relationships with his companions. Matt Smith's Doctor had a close bond with companions such as Amy Pond, Rory Williams, and Clara Oswald. His dynamic with his companions was often playful and lighthearted, with moments of deep emotional connection. Peter Capaldi's Doctor, on the other hand, had a more complex and sometimes strained relationship with his companions. His interactions with characters like Clara Oswald and Bill Potts were marked by moments of tension and conflict, adding a layer of drama to the series.

Storylines

Both Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi were involved in some of the most memorable storylines in Doctor Who history. Matt Smith's Doctor faced off against iconic villains like the Weeping Angels and the Silence, while also dealing with the mystery of the cracks in time. Peter Capaldi's Doctor, on the other hand, tackled themes of identity and morality in episodes like "Heaven Sent" and "World Enough and Time." Each actor brought their own unique spin to these storylines, making them unforgettable for fans of the series.

Legacy

As the Doctor, both Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi have left a lasting legacy on the series. Matt Smith's Eleventh Doctor is remembered for his quirky charm and infectious energy, while Peter Capaldi's Twelfth Doctor is praised for his depth and complexity. Both actors have brought something new and exciting to the role, adding to the rich tapestry of Doctor Who history. Their performances will be remembered by fans for years to come, solidifying their place in the hearts of Whovians everywhere.