 The episode was reviewed positively by both the audience and professional reviewers . The Audience Appreciation Index score was 91 : an unprecedented figure for Doctor Who and one of the highest ratings ever given to a television programme . On its original broadcast , it was viewed by 8 @.@ 78 million viewers and was the second most @-@ watched programme of the week ; at the time of broadcast , it was the highest position Doctor Who had ever reached . Critical reaction was overwhelmingly positive : Nicholas Briggs and Julian Bleach were commended for their portrayal of Dalek Caan and Davros respectively ; and most aspects of Davies ' writing were applauded : most notably , the twist ending of the episode was universally appreciated . The shock regeneration created an unprecedented level of public interest in the show , which continued until the transmission of " Journey 's End " . 
