A new Doctor Who audio series is set to delve into the fate of River Song beyond her death, with Alex Kingston reprising her role in the Whoniverse. Kingston first appeared as the companion and eventual wife to the Doctor in the two-part adventure 'Silence in the Library/Forest of the Dead' in season 4. While subsequent appearances explored her intricate relationship with the Time Lord, River's story seemingly concluded with her sacrifice to save others trapped in the Library's computer core.
Doctor Who season 14 is scheduled to premiere in May, but fans can look forward to a new narrative arc for the character as Big Finish announces 'The Death and Life of River Song', a fresh series of audio dramas led by Kingston. The first box set, 'Last Words', picks up after the events of her season 4 debut, with River finding herself in a new artificial body in the distant future.
In a statement, Kingston expressed her surprise and enthusiasm for the direction Big Finish has taken with the character, highlighting the innovative approach to River's storyline post-Library. This new development opens up possibilities for potential interactions with the Fifteenth Doctor, portrayed by Gatwa.
While Kingston was taken aback by her return in Big Finish's Doctor Who adventures, she had previously suggested ways for River to reappear on the television series with a similar premise. Kingston's idea of River becoming a digital entity capable of aiding the Doctor through screens and devices aligns with the temporary nature of her new body in the audio series.
With Big Finish exploring River's revival post-Library, the character's adventures are no longer bound by the constraints of her timeline with the Doctor, offering a fresh perspective on her story. This new chapter promises an uncharted direction for River Song, distinct from her previous appearances.
Originally premiering in 1963, Doctor Who follows the adventures of a Time Lord known as the Doctor, who travels through time and space in the TARDIS with various companions to solve problems and prevent disasters. Through regenerations, the Doctor undergoes transformations, allowing for different actors to portray the character with unique traits.
Doctor Who season 14 will debut on Disney+ for international audiences and BBC iPlayer for UK viewers on May 10 and 11 respectively. Fans can catch Kingston's Doctor Who audio adventures on Max.
