“I’m not the tea lady!” [to the Doctor] – Terror Of The Autons
Fluffy and girly-girl companion.
Jo Grant (played by Katy Manning), was brought in – following Liz Shaw’s departure; to fill in – as the Doctor’s new assistant in Terror Of The Autons – 1971.
Introduced, as an audience explanation device – to breakdown the sci-fi elements of the plot; by asking simple questions and demanding equally simple answers.
Jo was a very different character, from predecessor; Liz Shaw. Jo was younger, easier going – and very much in awe of the Doctor.
She did not have the Scientific Academic background – that Liz Shaw did. Jo was instead, employed – as a civilian UNIT contractor.
Jo’s main role, was to fetch the Doctor cups of tea – and test tubes. Jo was clumsy and out of place to begin with.
Jo was flowery and ditzy but could also be headstrong – and bold. Especially, if the issies were around environmental concerns; Jo’s main passion.
Jo was – however, lucky enough to be around; when the Third Doctor got the ability back to time-travel. Then accompaning the Doctor, on many journeys.
Jo also had the misfortune to have run-in’s with The Master, The Sea Devils – and The Daleks.
Jo stayed with the Doctor for 3 Seasons – a then record, Before leaving, in the environmental shocker-piece;The Green Death. After finding love, with an environmental Professor and then leaving; much to the Third Doctor’s chagrin.
Jo’s last act, was to return by post – to the Doctor, the blue ‘Metabelis 3’ crystal; which the Doctor had given to Jo; as a parting gift. It was this act, which ultimately set into motion, events leading to the Third Doctor’s downfall – and eventual forced regeneration.
