Doctor Who is an interesting show, both in terms of content and origins. The BBC has posted some of the original documents highlighting the origin of the show and its characters.

Doctor Who wasn't created by an individual. Rather, it was created by committee which included Sydney Newman, who was Head of Drama of the BBC at the time. As a result, the show is owned out-and-out by the BBC and no individual gets any royalties for the fundamental show (although individuals are credited with the creation of certain alien villains, such as the Daleks).

Concepts such as regeneration and Gallifrey were added later by various writers (even the Doctor's nemesis The Master was created by a group of writers for the show's 8th season). It's interesting how the memos between BBC executive describe him as an amnesiac from the future. That concept was obviously abandoned later.

It's a wonderful history lesson and gives some insight into a circumstance where television executives actually create something lasting and meaningful.