Beginning its sixth season this April, one British television show has been the foundation of a cultural phenomenon complete with a cult-like fan base. Yet, most Americans have never even heard of it.

“Doctor Who?” they may ask, skeptically. For the few who have heard of the show, Guinness World Records’ longest running science fiction program holds great appeal, with loyal viewers following it since its origin in 1963.

“I’ve been a fan since 1984,” Modern World History teacher Arthur Bescher said. “It’s my favorite show of all. I’ve got DVDs, tapes, everything.”

From the show’s beginning, 11 different actors have played the role of the title character, The Doctor.

According to the BBC America website, the series follows the adventures of The Doctor, the mysterious time lord from the planet Gallifrey who, with his human companions, journeys throughout time and space, facing a variety of foes and righting wrongs.

While Doctor Who’s popularity in the United Kingdom is monumental, its number of supporters is much fewer on this side of the Atlantic.

“In Britain, it’s a cultural thing,” Bescher said. “The main characters’ names and phrases are used daily.”

However, its popularity in the US appears to be increasing, as a number of CHS students eagerly wait in anticipation for the season premiere April 23. 

“I’ve watched for about two years,” sophomore Sean Dunn said. “I’ll probably put on my David Tennant shirt and yell at my family if they interrupt.”

Junior Lizzy Krause watches the show online to avoid waiting for episodes to appear in the US.

“It comes out several weeks earlier in Great Britain,” Krause said. “I don’t want to have to wait for it here. It’s the only show that I actually watch.”

What makes Doctor Who so different from other shows?  According to students, its rare combination of comedy, adventure, history, science fiction and romance makes it a uniquely interesting experience.

“I love Doctor Who because you can be scared out of your mind one second and laughing the next,” freshman Elena Freije said. “It’s sweet and crazy and terrifying and even romantic at some points.”

With its growing popularity, students also enjoy a bond with people from all over the world.

“There’s a huge fan base for the show,” senior Meg Murphy said. “It’s really cool being part of it.”