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Classic Who S8 • Serial 3 · (4 episodes)

The Claws of Axos

3.39/ 5 329 votes

First aired Saturday, March 13, 1971
Production Code GGG
Written by Bob Baker Dave Martin
Directed by Michael Ferguson
Runtime 100 minutes
Time Travel Present
Story Arc: (Potential Spoilers!) Exile on Earth Working for UNIT
Synopsis

A group of gold-skinned aliens land on Earth and offer wondrous technology in exchange for fuel. The Third Doctor, however, isn't fooled, uncovering the Axons' true nature and once again facing his arch enemy, the Master...

4 Episodes:

First aired Saturday, March 13, 1971
Runtime 25 minutes
Written by Bob Baker Dave Martin
Directed by Michael Ferguson
UK Viewers 7.3 million

Synopsis

When a mysterious object lands near the Nuton power complex, UNIT investigate and encounter the Axons, a group of aliens who offer the mineral axonite, which can duplicate matter, as a gift.

First aired Saturday, March 20, 1971
Runtime 25 minutes
Written by Bob Baker Dave Martin
Directed by Michael Ferguson
UK Viewers 8 million

Synopsis

The Doctor and Winser begin to analyse axonite while Chinn plots to secure its use exclusively for Britain.

First aired Saturday, March 27, 1971
Runtime 25 minutes
Written by Bob Baker Dave Martin
Directed by Michael Ferguson
UK Viewers 6.4 million

Synopsis

The Doctor and Jo are being held prisoner by Axos while Chinn is forced to organise the worldwide distribution of axonite and the Master returns to the power complex to try and steal the TARDIS.

First aired Saturday, April 3, 1971
Runtime 25 minutes
Written by Bob Baker Dave Martin
Directed by Michael Ferguson
UK Viewers 7.8 million

Synopsis

The Doctor and Jo escape from Axos but then the Doctor offers the Master a deal; if he helps him repair the TARDIS, they can flee Earth together.

Ratings are from TARDIS Guide members only.

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Other adaptations of this story: