This post contains spoilers.
Maisie Williams, best known for her role as Arya Stark in Game of Thrones, surprised fans when she appeared in Doctor Who during its ninth season. Her performance as Ashildr, a Viking girl turned immortal, became a standout moment in the Twelfth Doctor’s era. But how did she get the role? What was her character’s impact? Let’s dive into all the details.
Who Did Maisie Williams Play in Doctor Who?
Maisie Williams played Ashildr, a Viking girl who becomes immortal due to an encounter with the Doctor. Her character arc spans four episodes, making her one of the most memorable guest stars in recent Doctor Who history.
Ashildr’s Storyline in Doctor Who
1. The Girl Who Died (Season 9, Episode 5)
Ashildr is introduced as a young Viking who, despite being brave and resourceful, is ultimately killed during a battle against the alien Mire. However, the Doctor (Peter Capaldi) revives her using advanced alien technology—accidentally granting her immortality.
2. The Woman Who Lived (Season 9, Episode 6)
Hundreds of years later, Ashildr has evolved into “Me,” a cold and distant figure who struggles with eternal life. She no longer remembers her past selves and has grown detached from humanity.
3. Face the Raven (Season 9, Episode 10)
Ashildr resurfaces in a mysterious alien refugee camp and is responsible for a pivotal moment in Doctor Who history—the apparent death of Clara Oswald (Jenna Coleman).
4. Hell Bent (Season 9, Episode 12)
Her journey comes full circle when she helps the Doctor in the season finale, leaving fans to wonder about her fate beyond the show.
Why Was Maisie Williams Cast in Doctor Who?
Showrunner Steven Moffat revealed that Williams was cast because she could deliver a performance that was both youthful and wise beyond her years—a perfect match for Ashildr’s evolving character. Her success in Game of Thrones also made her a recognizable star, bringing new audiences to Doctor Who.
How Does Ashildr Compare to Arya Stark?
While both Ashildr and Arya Stark are strong-willed characters, their journeys are very different:
| Character | Show | Key Traits | Fate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashildr (Me) | Doctor Who | Immortal, distant, conflicted | Travels the universe |
| Arya Stark | Game of Thrones | Fearless, independent, vengeful | Explores the unknown west of Westeros |
Despite their differences, Maisie Williams brought the same intensity and depth to both roles, making each one unforgettable.
Final Thoughts: Maisie Williams’ Legacy in Doctor Who
Maisie Williams’ portrayal of Ashildr added depth and emotional weight to Doctor Who, proving she could shine beyond Game of Thrones. Whether she ever returns to the Whoniverse remains a mystery, but her character remains one of the most unique immortals in the show’s history.
Want more Maisie Williams content? Check out:
Maisie Williams’ Hidden Gem Movies
How Old Was Maisie Williams When Game of Thrones Started?
7 Best Game of Thrones Characters Ranked
FAQ
Was Maisie Williams a companion in Doctor Who?
No, Maisie Williams’ character was a recurring guest star, not a full-time companion. However, she had a significant impact on the Doctor’s journey.
Will Ashildr ever return to Doctor Who?
There’s no confirmation, but because Ashildr is immortal, she could return in future seasons.
How many Doctor Who episodes is Maisie Williams in?
Maisie Williams appears in four episodes of Doctor Who Season 9.
What episodes of Doctor Who is Maisie Williams in?
She appears in The Girl Who Died, The Woman Who Lived, Face the Raven, and Hell Bent.
Why did the Doctor make Ashildr immortal?
The Doctor saved her life using Mire technology, not realizing it would make her immortal.
Did Maisie Williams enjoy working on Doctor Who?
Yes! In interviews, she expressed excitement about playing such a unique and layered character.
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