Feature: “The One Who Waits” and the Pantheon of Gods Reveal (Spoilers)
Feature article by guest contributor Albert Connors.
“The Legend of Ruby Sunday” dropped a bombshell in the Whoniverse by bringing back one of the most formidable foes from the classic series: Sutekh the Destroyer. Whether you’re a seasoned fan familiar with this villain’s chilling legacy or a newcomer intrigued by his mysterious aura, this episode is a thrilling ride for all. Let’s look into why Sutekh’s return is monumental and what it means for everyone tuning in.
Who is Sutekh?
First off, for anyone scratching their heads wondering, “Who’s this Sutekh?”, time for a brief catch up.
Sutekh first terrorized the screens in the 1975 serial Pyramids of Mars, part of the Fourth Doctor’s era, played by Tom Baker. Known also as Sutekh the Destroyer, he’s an ancient, god-like being from the Osiran race, worshipped in ancient Egypt and feared across the universe for his desire to spread destruction and chaos.
In Pyramids of Mars, Sutekh was portrayed as a chilling, manipulative villain who could control minds and manipulate time and space to his will. His plan involved using the archaeologist Professor Marcus Scarman, whom he controlled to construct a rocket aimed at the Eye of Horus on Mars. This Eye was the source of the signal that kept Sutekh imprisoned in his tomb. By destroying the Eye, Sutekh aimed to free himself and unleash his wrath upon the universe, intending to cause universal destruction.
The Doctor ultimately managed to trap him in a time corridor, preventing his escape and seemingly ending his threat. But as we all know, few villains in the Whoniverse stay down forever!
Sutekh’s Return in “The Legend of Ruby Sunday”
Fast forward to now, Sutekh makes his grand re-entry in “The Legend of Ruby Sunday.”
Following the Doctor’s arrival at UNIT, he reunites with Kate Lethbridge-Stewart and other members of the team. The Doctor seeks their help to identify a mysterious woman, Susan Triad, appearing in various guises across his recent adventures. This woman, who heads S Triad Technology, sparks suspicion as her company’s name seems to be an anagram of TARDIS, hinting at a potential trap.
The plot thickens as Ruby retrieves a VHS tape with footage from the night she was abandoned, aiming to use UNIT’s advanced technology to identify her mother. Their investigation leads to a chilling discovery when they use the Time Window to recreate that fateful night. A hooded figure, believed to be Ruby’s mother, is seen pointing at the Doctor. However, the situation escalates when a mysterious black swirling vortex appears, consuming UNIT Colonel Chidozie and leaving his dead body behind as the Time Window overloads.
Further tension unfolds as the Doctor confronts Susan Triad during her preparation for an international technology broadcast, only to realize she is haunted by memories of her other existences. Susan collapses soon after and rises as a vessel for Sutekh. At the same time, Harriet, a new member of UNIT, reveals herself as a harbinger of “The One Who Waits.” It is at this moment that Sutekh himself materializes around the TARDIS. Sutekh asserts his presence and intention to destroy the universe…
I am Sutekh, the god of death. I am the night. I am the terror. I am the loss.
And all life will perish at my hand!
The Pantheon of Gods
The episode also fills fans in on more details on the pantheon of Gods previously hinted at. This group of powerful entities includes the Toymaker, the God of Games, as seen in the 60th anniversary special “The Giggle.” The Trickster, the God of Traps, features in The Sarah Jane Adventures. Maestro, the God of Music, appears in “The Devil’s Chord.” Reprobate, the God of Spite, is known for spreading malice wherever he goes. The Mara, the God of Beasts, controls and unleashes feral horrors. The threefold deity of Malice, Mischief, and Misery embodies the worst of trickery and sorrow. The Gods of Skin, Shame, and Secrets lurk in the shadows, revealing and concealing truths. Finally, Incensor, the God of Disaster, and her children, Doubt and Dread, complete this formidable assembly.
Conclusion
For longtime fans, Sutekh’s return is a delightful nod to the classic days of Doctor Who, bringing back a villain whose presence means serious business. For new fans, this is your perfect villain introduction—Sutekh brings a depth of lore and terror that elevates the storytelling. It’s a chance to see the Doctor face a threat that has a history of pushing him to his limits in the finale episode, “Empire of Death” next weekend…
