BBC Defends Inclusion of Transgender Character in Doctor Who Amid Complaints

Despite 144 complaints, the episode featuring the character was one of the most-watched in the UK, with 7.6 million viewers in the first week.

The BBC has responded to 144 complaints about the inclusion of a transgender character, Rose Noble, in the Doctor Who 60th anniversary specials, stating that the show will continue to celebrate diversity and reflect the world we live in.
Rose Noble, played by Yasmin Finney, is shown as being supported by her family in transitioning, while still facing transphobic bullying from other kids at school.
Despite the complaints, the episode featuring Rose Noble, 'The Star Beast', was one of the most-watched shows in the UK that week, with 7.6 million viewers within the first week of its broadcast.
Returning showrunner Russell T. Davies has been vocal in his support for increased representation in media, criticizing those who would rather see such representation 'wiped off the screen'.
Rose Noble is set to return in Doctor Who season 14, which is scheduled to premiere in May.