On November 23, 1963, the BBC premiered the very first episode of the iconic science-fiction television series "Doctor Who." The episode, titled "An Unearthly Child," introduced audiences to the mysterious time-traveling alien known as the Doctor, played by William Hartnell, and his companions Ian Chesterton (William Russell), Barbara Wright (Jacqueline Hill), and the Doctor's granddaughter, Susan Foreman (Carole Ann Ford).

The episode begins with two teachers, Ian and Barbara, following their curious student, Susan, home to a junkyard in London. There, they discover a strange police box, which is actually the Doctor's time machine, the TARDIS (Time and Relative Dimension in Space). Intrigued and concerned for Susan's well-being, they confront the Doctor, leading to a series of events that ultimately result in the group traveling back in time to the Stone Age.

"An Unearthly Child" was produced on a tight budget and faced numerous challenges during production, including a complete re-shoot of the episode due to technical issues and unsatisfactory performances. Despite these hurdles, the episode successfully launched the series, which has since become a global phenomenon spanning over five decades.

The debut of "Doctor Who" on this day in 1963 marked the beginning of one of the most influential and longest-running science-fiction franchises in television history. The series has introduced countless iconic characters, memorable storylines, and fearsome alien adversaries, such as the Daleks and the Cybermen. It has also tackled various social and political issues throughout its run, reflecting the changing times and attitudes of its audience.

Today, "Doctor Who" continues to captivate audiences worldwide, with the Doctor having been portrayed by numerous actors over the years, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the role. The series has expanded into various media, including books, audio dramas, and comic books, further cementing its place in popular culture and science-fiction history.