Part 5/12:

An undeniable indicator of the show's troubled trajectory is its plummeting viewership. Despite initial hopes, recent seasons have experienced record lows, with the finale garnering only 2.17 million viewers, placing it among the franchise’s poorest performances ever. This decline reflects not only fatigue but also widespread fan dissatisfaction with changes that feel forced, superficial, and politically motivated.

Fan critiques have intensified from the fandom's core, often seen as traditionalists, to include mainstream critics who recognize the series’ shift into overt messaging. Former supporters who once appreciated Doctor Who's inclusivity now feel alienated by what they see as heavy-handed virtue signaling, lack of compelling storytelling, and an abandonment of the franchise's roots.