Doctor Who episode starring Lenny Henry met with positive reception

The Black Country comedian, who stars as the villainous tech genius Daniel Barton, was described as "stealing the show" by reviewers – with another calling him a "national treasure".

Spyfall Part 1 – a reference to spy series James Bond – saw the 13th incarnation of the time-travelling Doctor, played by Jodie Whittaker, be recruited by MI6 to tackle an alien threat.

They soon discover spies are being targeted across the country in the hour-long special, which has been linked to a villainous tech genius from Bromsgrove played by Lenny Henry.

A national newspaper said: "Henry has pivoted towards more serious roles lately. He’s done Brecht on stage and graced noted chuckle-fest Broadchurch.

"To the part of a Silicon Valley despot with Bond-villain tendencies he brings a zeal bordering on devilish."

The Dudley-born star had previously criticised the show for its lack of diversity, saying bosses would "rather have a dog do Doctor Who than a black person".

But Mr Henry later said it was a "really bizarre" and "exciting" experience – adding he didn't think he would "ever recover" from it, having been a lifelong fan.

Fans took to social media in the aftermath of the hour-long show, with one posting: "Well, that was a rollercoaster ride and a half.

"Lenny Henry in particular absolutely knocked it out of the park."

Another said: "Guest stars Lenny Henry, Stephen Fry and Sacha Dhawan giving us a memorable opening episode.

"This season is shaping up to be masterful."

One more said: "Lenny Henry makes an incredible villain and he's the best part of this episode so far. This is not a tweet I expected to be sending."

Viewing figures have not yet been released, but estimates show the programme attracted below five million viewers – the lowest for Jodie Whittaker's time in the Tardis.

Spyfall Part 1 aired on New Year's Day at 6.55pm, with the second part airing on Sunday.