In news that millions of fans have been waiting for, the BBC has today announced the new Doctor Who for the next series of the show – Adult Life Skills and Broadchurch star Jodie Whittaker.
Whittaker will take over the mantle from the departing Peter Capaldi and becomes the Thirteenth Time Lord with her debut on the show coming this Christmas.
On her casting, Whittaker said:
“I’m beyond excited to begin this epic journey – with Chris and with every Whovian on this planet. It’s more than an honour to play the Doctor. It means remembering everyone I used to be, while stepping forward to embrace everything the Doctor stands for: hope. I can’t wait.”
New head writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall, who takes over from original showrunner Steven Moffat, was the man who made the decision to cast Whittaker and said:
“After months of lists, conversations, auditions, recalls, and a lot of secret-keeping, we’re excited to welcome Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor. … I always knew I wanted the Thirteenth Doctor to be a woman and we’re thrilled to have secured our number one choice. Her audition for The Doctor simply blew us all away. Jodie is an in-demand, funny, inspiring, super-smart force of nature and will bring loads of wit, strength and warmth to the role. The Thirteenth Doctor is on her way.”
The departing Peter Capaldi said on the news:
“Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker’s work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm. She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She’s going to be a fantastic Doctor.”
Many of the team from the BBC have also expressed their excitement about Whittaker’s casting:
Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content:
“Making history is what Doctor Who is all about and Chris Chibnall’s bold new take on the next Time Lord is exactly that. The nation is going to fall in love with Jodie Whittaker – and have lots of fun too!”
Piers Wenger, Controller BBC Drama:
“Jodie is not just a talented actor but she has a bold and brilliant vision for her Doctor. She aced it in her audition both technically and with the powerful female life force she brings to the role. She is destined to be an utterly iconic Doctor.”
Matt Strevens, Executive Producer:
“I’m so thrilled that Jodie Whittaker said yes to playing the Doctor. I’ve been a fan for years and always hoped to work with her. She is an actor of great emotional range and inhabits every role with complete passion and conviction. Just thinking about what she will bring to the Doctor makes me as excited as a kid at Christmas. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”
The new season of Doctor Who will air on BBC One this Christmas.
