The cult status awarded to these British actors after appearances in miniseries or short-running dramas has been enjoyed by far fewer American actors who’ve starred in far bigger, longer-lasting TV series. Their breakout roles have often defined their career and changed the whole trajectory of their professional lives, securing them enviable filmographies in every big-budget franchise.

Tennant is currently at the helm of Doctor Who again, this time as the fourteenth doctor, for the three-part 60th anniversary special after being voted the best Time Lord of all time.

“Tennant’s Doctor is charismatic, energetic and emotionally complex, embodying the timeless allure of the mysterious and otherworldly,” Kenny says. “His performance captures the psychological draw of adventure and exploration, solidifying his status as the beloved sci-fi heartthrob.”

Fans who are still not over his heartbreaking goodbye to the role in 2010 (what a year, honestly) have enjoyed his brief temporary return before Ncuti Gatwa takes over and likely becomes our next collective obsession.

But how did British TV heartthrobs gain such a cult status in pop culture?

Mr Darcy, Luther, Sherlock: how the cult status of British TV heartthrobs never dies