It's strange to think, but just a couple of days from now - Dec 28, to be exact - it will be the 50th anniversary since "Robot" was broadcast. This is quite an important story for Doctor Who fans. It was Tom Baker's first full appearance as the Fourth Doctor.
It's amazing to think that it's been that long. Even more amazing is the impact that Tom Baker had playing the role. Lasting for 7 seasons - to this day, still the longest era of any Doctor - to many, even decades later, Tom Baker is the Doctor. Many have come and gone since he left of course. But very few have proven to be quite as iconic as Baker was.
So it's perhaps very fitting that this year, he's given a special Christmas message to everyone, recorded by Cygnus Alpha Events. It may be short, but it's also undeniably sweet. You can see for yourself in the video below.
A message for the fans
It's amazing to think that Tom Baker is 90 years old. While I won't deny that he looks it, there's also no denying that the ageless quality that he brought to the Fourth Doctor all those decades ago is still there.
As a Big Finish fan, this isn't too surprising. The most amazing thing about Tom Baker is that he's still playing the Doctor to this day. It may be entirely on audio, but that hasn't stopped him from bringing all of the magic, the fun and the mystery that he had when he played the Doctor on television.
And honestly, listening to this Christmas message brings that same feeling. He sounds as engaging as he always did, and his gratitude to the fans is clear. His final words are particularly great to listen to, as they're wonderfully honest.
"And if ever we should meet, and you want to give me some advice, I'll listen. I'll listen. I won't necessarily act on it, but I'll listen."Tom Baker
Merry Christmas, Tom Baker. Thank you for giving so much to the fandom. And thank you for listening.