BBC Doctor Who Walls

Five adverts featuring Doctor Who over the past 50 years: Weetabix, Prime Computers, Sky Ray Space Raiders

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By Ishbel Macleod, PR and social media consultant

November 21, 2013 | 2 min read

With the 50th anniversary of Doctor Who taking place on Saturday 23 November, we take a look at advertisements making use of the franchise through the years, from a 1960s Sky Ray Space Raiders ad to the BBC’s ad promoting the anniversary.

1960s: Sky Ray Space Raiders

Buy a sixpence ice lolly and see the Doctor battling with Daleks.

1970s: Weetabix

At this point, it became apparent that the Daleks were 'selling out' on the ad market. Anywhere else, that could mean there contract was exterminated.

1980s: Prime Computers

The fourth Doctor - Tom Baker - and assistant Lalla Ward (that's the Time Lord Romana for those not in the know) - created a series of ads for Prime Computers in the 1980s. Basically, the computer saved the day.

1990s: New Zealand Superannuation Services

In 1997, Tom Baker returned to New Zealand TV screens to promote the New Zealand Superannuation Services...through the number 0800 TARDIS.

2000s: Doctor Who 'series one'

In 2005, Doctor Who came back to TV screens. Here's the BBC's main trailer for the relaunch of the show...

And now - 2010s: 50th anniversary

Got you in the mood for Saturday? Here is the first official 'Day of the Doctor' ad, by Red Bee, for the 50th anniversary episode.
BBC Doctor Who Walls

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