Doctor Who Broadcast Dates in Tampa 1981: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The beloved British science fiction series Doctor Who has a vast and devoted fan base around the world. In 1981, the show's 18th season aired in Tampa, Florida, captivating audiences with its thrilling adventures and endearing characters. This article provides a detailed overview of the Doctor Who broadcast dates in Tampa during that unforgettable year.

Broadcast Dates

The 18th season of Doctor Who, comprising 28 episodes, aired on WSUN-TV Channel 38 in Tampa every Saturday at 1:00 PM, starting on January 10, 1981. The season concluded on June 27, 1981.

Episode Guide

Key Events

• January 10, 1981: The 18th season of Doctor Who premieres in Tampa with the episode "The Leisure Hive."
• February 28, 1981: The iconic episode "The Death of the Doctor" airs, featuring the regeneration of the Fourth Doctor (Tom Baker) into the Fifth Doctor (Peter Davison).
• March 7-28, 1981: The four-part epic "The Invasion of Time" captivates Tampa viewers with its thrilling plot and impressive special effects.

Behind the Scenes

• The 18th season of Doctor Who underwent several production changes, including the departure of long-time producer Philip Hinchcliffe.
• John Nathan-Turner took over as producer, bringing with him a fresh vision for the series.
• The season featured the introduction of a new companion, Adric, played by Matthew Waterhouse.

Critical Reception

The 18th season of Doctor Who received mixed reviews from critics. However, the series remained popular with fans, particularly young viewers.

Cultural Impact

Doctor Who has had a significant impact on popular culture, including:

• The show has inspired numerous spin-offs, books, and merchandise.
• It has been credited with popularizing the science fiction genre in the United Kingdom and beyond.
• The series has been praised for its educational value, introducing children to scientific concepts and historical events.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming all episodes aired in Tampa: Not all episodes of the 18th season of Doctor Who aired in Tampa.
• Confusing broadcast dates: Check reliable sources to confirm the exact broadcast dates in Tampa.
• Overlooking important events: Pay attention to key events such as the regeneration of the Doctor and the epic "Invasion of Time" storyline.

Compare Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Engaging storytelling: Doctor Who is known for its thrilling adventures and complex characters.
• Educational value: The show introduces viewers to science, history, and philosophy.
• Cultural impact: Doctor Who has had a lasting impact on popular culture and continues to inspire creativity.

Cons:

• Uneven production quality: The 18th season featured some episodes with low production values.
• Mixed critical reception: The season received mixed reviews from critics.
• Repetitive storylines: Some fans may criticize the show's occasional formulaic plots.

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

• The Time Lord who Got Lost in Tampa: Once, the Doctor's TARDIS malfunctioned while he was visiting Tampa, leading to a hilarious adventure where he ended up stranded in a local shopping mall. This taught us that even the most intelligent beings can sometimes get lost.
• The Dalek who Mistook a Cigar for a Weapon: During an encounter with the Daleks in Tampa, one of the creatures mistook a lit cigar for a deadly weapon. This incident reminded us that even the most fearsome enemies can be defeated by the most unexpected objects.
• The Companion who Forgot to Pack: Adric, the Doctor's companion, once arrived in Tampa without any luggage. This taught us the importance of always being prepared, especially when traveling through time and space.

Conclusion

The Doctor Who broadcast dates in Tampa 1981 marked a significant chapter in the history of the beloved series. The 18th season captivated audiences with its thrilling adventures, iconic characters, and cultural impact. By understanding the broadcast details, key events, and behind-the-scenes stories, fans can appreciate the enduring legacy of Doctor Who in Tampa and beyond.