Sutekh’s Return in “The Legend of Ruby Sunday”
(originally written on cafecrashdown.com)
The Whoniverse is buzzing with excitement and speculation after the latest bombshell reveal. “The Legend of Ruby Sunday” has brought back one of the most formidable foes from the classic Doctor Who series—Sutekh the Destroyer. Whether you’re a seasoned fan well-versed in Sutekh’s chilling legacy or a newcomer intrigued by his mysterious aura, this episode promises a thrilling ride for everyone.
Join us as we dive into this latest episode of Doctor Who and explore the return of Sutekh the Destroyer!
The Big Bad – Sutekh the Destroyer
Let’s look into why Sutekh’s return is monumental and what it means for everyone tuning in. First appearing in the 1975 serial “Pyramids of Mars,” Sutekh the Destroyer is an ancient, god-like being from the Osiran race. Worshipped in ancient Egypt and feared across the universe, Sutekh is known for his insatiable desire to spread destruction and chaos. His return signifies a high-stakes threat that promises to push the Doctor to his limits.
Sutekh in the Past
Sutekh first terrorized the screens in the 1975 serial “Pyramids of Mars,” part of the Fourth Doctor’s era, played by Tom Baker. Known also as Sutekh the Destroyer, he’s an ancient, god-like being from the Osiran race, worshipped in ancient Egypt and feared across the universe for his desire to spread destruction and chaos.
In “Pyramids of Mars,” Sutekh was portrayed as a chilling, manipulative villain who could control minds and manipulate time and space to his will. His plan involved using the archaeologist Professor Marcus Scarman, whom he controlled to construct a rocket aimed at the Eye of Horus on Mars. This Eye was the source of the signal that kept Sutekh imprisoned in his tomb. By destroying the Eye, Sutekh aimed to free himself and unleash his wrath upon the universe, intending to cause universal destruction.
The Doctor ultimately managed to trap him in a time corridor, preventing his escape and seemingly ending his threat. But as we all know, few villains in the Whoniverse stay down forever!
Sutekh’s Return in “The Legend of Ruby Sunday”
“I am Sutekh, the god of death. I am the night. I am the terror. I am the loss. And all life will perish at my hand!”
This chilling proclamation from Sutekh in “The Legend of Ruby Sunday” sent shivers down the spines of viewers. The episode reintroduces Sutekh as a menacing force with a renewed vendetta against the Doctor and the universe. His return is not just a trip down memory lane; it’s a statement that the stakes are higher than ever.
Explaining The Pantheon Of Gods
The episode also fills fans in on more details on the pantheon of Gods previously hinted at. This group of powerful entities includes:
- The Toymaker – The God of Games, as seen in the 60th anniversary special “The Giggle.”
- The Trickster – The God of Traps, featured in The Sarah Jane Adventures.
- Maestro – The God of Music, appearing in “The Devil’s Chord.”
- Reprobate – The God of Spite, known for spreading malice wherever he goes.
- The Mara – The God of Beasts, controlling and unleashing feral horrors.
- Threefold Deity of Malice, Mischief, and Misery – Embodying the worst of trickery and sorrow.
- The Gods of Skin, Shame, and Secrets – Lurking in the shadows, revealing and concealing truths.
- Incensor – The God of Disaster, along with her children, Doubt and Dread.
Thoughts On Sutekh
For longtime fans, Sutekh’s return is a delightful nod to the classic days of Doctor Who, bringing back a villain whose presence means serious business. For new fans, this is your perfect villain introduction—Sutekh brings a depth of lore and terror that elevates the storytelling. It’s a chance to see the Doctor face a threat that has a history of pushing him to his limits in the finale episode, “Empire of Death” next weekend.
The Next Episode
The Doctor has lost, his ageless enemy reigns supreme, and a shadow is falling over creation. Nothing can stop the devastation… except, perhaps, one woman. Before you watch the “Empire of Death,” catch up on “Pyramids of Mars” to fully appreciate the stakes of this epic finale.
Episodes to Watch Before The Last Episode- Empire Of Death
Showrunner Russell T. Davies highlighted several episodes to watch to get the full experience:
- “Bad Wolf/The Parting of the Ways” – Christopher Eccleston’s final story.
- “The Bells of Saint John” – Showcases finale stories and the adventure’s modern London setting.
- “Spearhead From Space” – Jon Pertwee’s Third Doctor debut for an introduction to UNIT stories.
- “A Good Man Goes to War” – Known for its familial reveal twist.
- “The Church on Ruby Road” – To see the story from a whole new angle.
These recommendations provide context and enrich the viewing experience, making the upcoming episodes even more impactful.
The return of Sutekh the Destroyer is a monumental event in the Doctor Who series, bringing together elements of nostalgia, high-stakes drama, and thrilling storytelling.
This latest episode, “The Legend of Ruby Sunday,” serves as a perfect blend of old and new, capturing the essence of what makes Doctor Who timeless. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in the Whoniverse.
Ready to explore more about this epic return and other exciting developments in Doctor Who? Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t miss out on the upcoming finale, “Empire of Death.”
