Doctor Who’s Vincent Van Gogh Actor Reflects On Fan-Favorite Episode 13 Years Later

Doctor Who guest star Tony Curran reflects on the legacy and real-world impact of “Vincent and the Doctor” 13 years after it first aired, discussing its reception among viewers and its real-world impact. In the 2010 episode, Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor and Karen Gillan’s Amy Pond visit the famed artist Vincent van Gogh after spotting a terrifying face within one of his paintings. “Vincent and the Doctor” was written by Love, Actually director Richard Curtis, and has earned acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of the artist’s struggle and touching story.

Almost 14 years since Smith’s Doctor Who era began and “Vincent and The Doctor” aired towards the end of season 5, Curran opened up to RadioTimes about the story’s lasting legacy. Alongside getting to share the episode with his daughter, Curran has been left humbled by the audience’s approval of his portrayal and proud of its impact on awareness of mental health in times where resources were few, and how it continues to touch those who do struggle and inspire them to seek out help in dark times. Check out Curran’s full recollection below:

I watched it a while ago with my daughter, a few years ago or something, and she was crying away, bless her. We did a video a few years ago, it’s on my Instagram, it was Vincent’s birthday and I do a little ‘Happy birthday Vincent’ and I pull up the painting that the BBC very kindly gave me as a wrap gift.

Of course, it was the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who and I was voted on Radio Times as the most beloved guest star or cameo. That didn’t go unnoticed. That was very humbling. [The episode] was art, how can art affect people? Hopefully in a good way. It was the first time actually, after that episode came out 10 years ago or whatever it was, there was a [phone] number for people living with depression or mental health issues.

I guess, as an actor, as an artist, to entertain people, to inform people is great. But maybe, and hopefully at times, to help people is a great feeling. I had some people come up to me and say they were in a really dark place and that they’d thought about making some very dark decisions and they watched that episode, it made them cry and it made them contact people who [said] ‘It’s OK to not be OK’, as it were.

“Vincent and the Doctor” Is An Emotional Exploration Of Mental Health And The Struggles Of A Complex Man

Despite the threat of a lone Krafayis stalking the streets and countryside of 1890s France, “Vincent and the Doctor’s” human story solidified its status among Doctor Who viewers. Alongside memorable art-themed jokes including sunflower critiques and jabs at Michelangelo, Vincent’s friendship with the Doctor and Amy is touching, as the time-traveling pair provide the artist with joy where others in his time ostracized and demonized him. This bond reaches its emotional peak as the duo gives Vincent a glimpse at his lasting legacy with a trip to the present, showing his art will always be remembered.

However, “Vincent and the Doctor” does not shy away from the darker elements of Van Gogh’s life. Set within the final year of his life, Vincent is characterized by a fascinating view of the universe and an incredible drive, the episode also depicts the artist’s struggles with depression, believing he is doomed to see everyone, including his new friends, leave him, leading to him taking his life mere weeks after their adventure. Showing the complexities and struggles with mental health, Doctor Who’s Van Gogh adventure highlights the importance of empathy and kindness.

“Vincent and the Doctor” is a story that continues to bring tears to audiences to this day, whether through the unique twist on its monster or Van Gogh’s touching exchange with Bill Nighy’s curator Mr. Black. As such, Curran’s reflection is sure to resonate with many who have found themselves inspired by its exploration of both the artist and the struggles those with mental issues face. Doctor Who will continue time-traveling adventures, but “Vincent and the Doctor” perfectly captures how its grounded, human tales can be impactful and life-changing.