Happy 44th birthday, Doctor Who!

On this day in 1963 on BBC television at 5:15 pm, viewers saw a notice about the assasination of John F. Kennedy, and then saw something not unlike this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKg9tuSbXmk

…and with that, Doctor Who began its 44 year hold on England’s psyche, racking up the title of longest running science fiction television series, and after a brief respite it shows no signs of slowing down. No longer a victim of creative low budget special effects, the show’s addictive formula, excellent casting  and impressive cameos have made it a household favorite across the pond, and a closet favorite at home.

Happy birthday, old man.