DOCTOR Who producer Steven Moffat says the women in the series are not like the one-dimensional characters often portrayed in James Bond films.

After the departure of the Doctor’s companion Clara Oswald (Jenna Coleman), who is leaving the series after three years, the Scots-born TV executive was keen to emphasize the impact this will have on the Time Lord, currently played by Peter Capaldi.

Moffat, who grew up in Paisley, said: “We have an emotionally engaged hero and the women he knows are not like James Bond girls. They don’t just disappear between movies. When the Doctor ends a friendship, it tears him apart.”

Moffat has been accused of misogyny by a newspaper and online forums, who dislike the roles he has written for female characters such as River Song, Amy Pond and Clara. Critics say he writes women who cannot exist without a male presence to guide them. 

Addressing these concerns, he said: “It’s a complicated issue. I never quite know how to respond. The general point being made by these people is correct. We need better female role models on screen.

“Maybe this is my dimwittery but I do not understand why Doctor Who of all shows is singled out as misogynist. I’m sure I’m to the left of a lot of my detractors.”

Having killed off Clara’s character in a recently screened episode, Moffat was reluctant to be drawn on his plans for a successor, only saying: “A new companion gives us the chance to relaunch the show. And we’ve got a really cool new idea about how to do that.”

It is the latest defence that Moffat has issued of his depiction of women during his seven year stint in charge of the show.

Earlier this year, he said: “These are strong women. If anyone needs rescuing, it’s the Doctor. As for “macho” – Matt Smith, David Tennant? Really?”