Automated Attack Monkeys, Scalpel Mines, & Acid

Oh, I must have missed the part where this was a wider commentary on the television industry. That's a different conversation, though it doesn't invalidate the fact that what was needed was the best actress who turned up to the audition (and as I've never seen Coleman in anything to the best of my knowledge, I'll assume that's what she is until I'm shown otherwise).

If you look at the full range of companions we've had in Doctor Who since 2005, there have been two non-white characters, one non-het, and two aged 35+. Three if you count River as a companion. I don't even know what 'conventionally attractive' means in the context of a series which gave a lead role to the very unconventional-looking Matt Smith. And you may remember US fans being thrilled that they cast a 'fat chick' to play Rose (/eyeroll).