The struggles of an anonymous "Time Lord" from the fictional planet Gallifrey against Daleks, Cyborgs, and a host of other imagined extraterrestrial enemies are already popular viewing among some Chinese sci-fi fans but many more will soon find the British TV show easier to access.
Ten past series of Doctor Who and several that have not yet been aired will soon be available on TV channels and on-demand platforms in China, following a deal signed by BBC Worldwide and Shanghai Media Group Pictures, which is also known as SMG Pictures.
The BBC series started in 1963. It chronicles the adventures of the time-traveling extraterrestrial known only as "The Doctor". The show has garnered a significant cult following and is broadcast in 239 territories around the world.
The new deal will grant SMG Pictures access to the 10 seasons of the show that have been screened since the series was re-launched in 2005, as well as the 11th series, which has not yet been filmed. There will also be an option for the three subsequent series.
The deal includes Doctor Who spin-off shows Torchwood and Class.
Jaclyn-Lee Joe, chief marketing officer at BBC Worldwide, said: "This marks the start of a longer and even more fruitful partnership with SMGP. Doctor Who already has a substantial fan base in China. Now, Chinese fans will be able to access the entire catalogue of Doctor Who and its spin-offs, thanks to this agreement."
Joe said the deal was an affirmation of both parties' commitment to build the Doctor Who brand and fan base in China.
Doctor Who is currently available on digital platforms Youku and LeTV whose own deals will remain in place until they expire. In the series, The Doctor has visited China on several occasions, during historically significant periods in the third century BC, and the 13th, 20th and 21st centuries.
