The 'fresh face' effect

Researchers wanted to test the idea that new faces can make a huge impact. They used Doctor Who from the world of television. Doctor Who is a science-fiction programme where the Doctor solves crimes and saves planets. Doctor Who regenerates rather than dies. Thirteen lead actors have portrayed the character.

The researchers found that the teams with more new faces produced high-rated episodes. The fewer new faces the worse average ratings those episodes received in the study.