So it was officially announced today that Donna is returning as a full-time companion next year.

I’m a bit dubious about this myself. Concerns about Catherine Tate’s “shouty” acting from the Christmas special aside, its a bit of a step backwards for the show. Its one thing to revisit Sarah Jane years later, or to bring back Captain Jack (since we’d been told at the time he’d be back), but I thought the ending of The Runaway Bride was quite powerful. Finally, a companion had knocked back the chance to travel with the Doctor full time, as he and his lifestyle was too dangerous. That’s up in the air now.

Plus I loved Martha as a companion. Granted she’ll be back in the second half of season 4 (although I don’t believe we know how many episodes that’ll account for), but I’d hate to think she’s been shunted to the side to make way for a bigger name.