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Despite the controversy, the show’s creators pointed to critical acclaim as justification. However, audience scores told a different story, with approximately 34% of viewers expressing dissatisfaction. The less-than-stellar ratings culminated in episodes that were some of the lowest ever aired, raising questions about the effectiveness of the messaging-heavy approach.
Allegories and Social Messaging Take Center Stage
One notable episode—Doctor Who Season 14, Episode 5—became a focal point of controversy. It was explicitly centered around themes of racism, aiming to make white viewers feel guilty about the injustices of the past. The episode appeared to prioritize delivering a social message over traditional storytelling, sparking accusations of propaganda.