Varada Sethu Says Criticism of Controversial Doctor Who Exit Was ‘A Bit Unfair’

When the final episode of Varada Sethu’s run as Doctor Who companion Belinda aired back in May, it left some critical fans asking: was that really the ending the character deserved?

After just eight episodes, Belinda’s story was wrapped up in a rapid timeline rewrite that placed her in a quiet domestic life, raising baby Poppy. It was a far cry from the character’s beginnings.

Now, in a recent episode of Chaiming In, Varada Sethu has addressed her Doctor Who exit head-on. “I feel like the majority… it was, again, so much love,” she said.

But she acknowledged that not all fan reactions were celebratory: “The reactions that always make me laugh… it’s a bit unfair because I think the writing was beautiful. I think it was tied up in a way that was perfect. I cannot think of a better way of completing that circle.

“But it’s always like, ‘Oh, I can’t believe I won’t get to see Belinda’. It’s a frustration that comes from people loving Belinda so much that they’re like, ‘I can’t believe I don’t get more.’”

And Varada hasn’t ruled out a Doctor Who return: “I would love to go back if they’ll have me back. But it’s all wrapped up for now. What Russell [T Davies] left it as was, ‘The door’s always open.’”