Although there is little televised evidence upon which to base a thorough description of the Eighth Doctor, several broad character traits are apparent. The new Doctor behaves in a more human manner than his predecessors, perhaps tying in to the revelation that he is half-human; this is most clearly seen in his willingness to entertain romantic notions with Grace Holloway, albeit in an innocent, almost childlike manner. Like the Fifth Doctor, he exhibits an endearing vulnerability, but this is contrasted by a sense of urgency and decisiveness. He also demonstrates a flippant sense of humour reminiscent of, though not identical to, the Second and Fourth Doctors. Clearly, the Eighth Doctor is still largely an open pallet; we have seen the broad strokes of his composition, but the finer details are yet to be painted.

Paul McGann played the Doctor in Doctor Who in May 1996.

Grace Holloway was a cardiologist in 1999 San Francisco. Described by the Doctor as "tired of life but afraid of death", she is clearly a cheerful and warm individual but these characteristics are masked beneath a cold, distant veneer of professionalism. Devoted more to her goal in life -- to "hold back death" -- rather than her occupation itself, Grace demonstrates a streak of individuality and initiative, though she lacks true confidence in herself. It is her adventure with the Doctor which seems to resolve this latter flaw; it remains to be seen whether Grace's self-renewal will have a positive effect on her life.

Daphne Ashbrook played Grace in Doctor Who in May 1996.