Season 24, Episode 4 | 3 parts | First broadcast: 23 November – 7 December 1987 | Writer: Ian Briggs | Director: Chris Clough
Cast
- Sylvester McCoy as the Doctor
- Bonnie Langford as Mel Bush
- Sophie Aldred as Ace
- Edward Peel as Kane
- Tony Selby as Sabalom Glitz
Summary
Arriving at Iceworld, a vast frozen shopping complex on the planet Svartos, the Doctor and Mel reunite with the roguish con man Sabalom Glitz and meet Ace, a time-displaced teenager working as a waitress who longs for adventure. Glitz is hunting for the legendary treasure of a dragon rumored to lie beneath Iceworld, but the group instead uncovers the horrifying truth behind Kane, the complex’s ruthless ruler, and the ancient secret he has kept frozen for millennia.
Interesting Facts
- This story introduces Ace, played by Sophie Aldred, who joins the Doctor at its conclusion and becomes his companion for the remainder of the classic series.
- It marks Bonnie Langford’s final regular appearance as Mel Bush, who departs to travel with Glitz instead.
- The story is notable for a famous cliffhanger in which the Doctor appears to dangle from a cliff edge by his umbrella, widely mocked and later acknowledged by the production team as one of the series’ more awkward moments.
- Tony Selby’s return as Sabalom Glitz ties this story back to his earlier appearances during the Trial of a Time Lord season.
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