The year 2024 was a mixed bag for Doctor Who, following the excitement of its 60th anniversary celebrations and a fantastical holiday special the previous year. With Ncuti Gatwa’s debut season on the horizon, anticipation was high, but the season’s overall momentum and the mystery surrounding its new companion, Ruby Sunday, were not without their setbacks and highlights. The show’s refocusing and Ruby Sunday’s storyline had their stumbles and missteps. Now, with the show’s return for its 2025 season, a new companion, Belinda Chandra, has been introduced, and she may be the key to making this era of Doctor Who truly shine.

The season premiere, “The Robot Revolution,” is a classic Russell T Davies opener, introducing us to Belinda, a young nurse played by Varada Sethu, as she navigates her daily life, replete with long shifts, flatmates, and a desire for connection. Her life is disrupted by giant killer robots, leading her to cross paths with the Doctor, and while we expect the typical dynamic, Belinda surprises us by wanting to return home immediately, rather than embracing the thrill of adventure. This twist on the Doctor-companion relationship brings a fresh energy to the episode, with Belinda’s frankness and confidence making for great chemistry with Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor.

Belinda’s character is not a new concept for Doctor Who, as companions like Ian, Barbara, and Tegan have expressed their desire to return home in the past. However, what sets Belinda apart is the show’s willingness to engage with this idea from the start, allowing for a more nuanced exploration of the Doctor-companion dynamic. The episode shines with Belinda’s character at its core, rather than relying solely on the Doctor Who formula.

The episode’s premise is a fun sci-fi riff, with action, tragedy, twists, and clever wordplay, making it one of the stronger openers in modern Who. The relationship between Belinda and the Doctor is compelling, with a push-and-pull dynamic that makes their interactions feel fresh and exciting. Unlike Ruby Sunday’s character, whose friendship with the Doctor was often told rather than shown, Belinda’s relationship with the Doctor is developed on-screen, allowing for a more organic and engaging connection between the two characters.

Belinda challenges the Doctor in a non-antagonistic way, bringing out a fresh side of his character as he realizes his charms don’t always work on everyone. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, with a clear connection that develops throughout the episode. This dynamic makes “The Robot Revolution” an exciting premiere, full of potential for the upcoming season.

With the 15th Doctor and Belinda at the helm, Doctor Who has a secret weapon that will keep viewers engaged, regardless of the challenges or adventures that come their way. As the show returns to Disney+ and the BBC, fans can look forward to a season that might be make-or-break for the series, but with this new team, the future looks bright.

Doctor Who returns to Disney+ and the BBC on Saturday, April 12.

For more io9 news, check out the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, as well as updates on the DC Universe and the future of Doctor Who.