A regeneration is on the horizon for Doctor Who. Today, the BBC announced that Jodie Whittaker (the 13th Doctor) will be departing the show, alongside Chris Chibnall, Doctor Who‘s showrunner. The two will leave following this year’s six-episode season and a trio of special episodes set to air next year, culminating in a feature-length regeneration special next fall.
The duo joined the BBC series in 2017, with Whittaker cast as the first female Doctor. Since then, two entire seasons have aired, featuring the arrival and departure of a new set of companions, the return of some classic characters and monsters, and a host of additions to the show’s long-running mythology. And they’re still hard at work filming their latest season, set to air this fall. The new season features a new companion (played by John Bishop), Game of Thrones’ Jacob Anderson in a recurring role, and a more serialized storyline.
Some Thoughts from Chris Chibnall
In the press release, Doctor Who showrunner Chris Chibnall shared some of his thoughts about his tenure and upcoming departure, saying:
“Jodie and I made a ‘three series and out’ pact with each other at the start of this once-in-a-lifetime blast. So now our shift is done, and we’re handing back the TARDIS keys.
“Jodie’s magnificent, iconic Doctor has exceeded all our high expectations. She’s been the gold standard leading actor, shouldering the responsibility of being the first female Doctor with style, strength, warmth, generosity and humour. She captured the public imagination and continues to inspire adoration around the world, as well as from everyone on the production. I can’t imagine working with a more inspiring Doctor – so I’m not going to!
“For me, leading this exceptional team has been unrivalled creative fun, and one of the great joys of my career. I’m so proud of the people we’ve worked with and the stories we’ve told. To finish our time on the show with an additional Special, after the pandemic changed and challenged our production plans, is a lovely bonus. It’s great that the climax of the Thirteenth Doctor’s story will be at the heart(s) of the BBC’s centenary celebrations.
“I wish our successors – whoever the BBC and BBC Studios choose – as much fun as we’ve had. They’re in for a treat!”
Some Thoughts from Jodie Whittaker
In the press release, Whittaker touched on her experience on the show, and how it feels to be leaving it. She said:
“In 2017 I opened my glorious gift box of size 13 shoes. I could not have guessed the brilliant adventures, worlds and wonders I was to see in them. My heart is so full of love for this show, for the team who make it, for the fans who watch it and for what it has brought to my life. And I cannot thank Chris enough for entrusting me with his incredible stories. We knew that we wanted to ride this wave side by side, and pass on the baton together. So here we are, weeks away from wrapping on the best job I have ever had. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to express what this role has given me. I will carry the Doctor and the lessons I’ve learnt forever.
“I know change can be scary and none of us know what’s out there. That’s why we keep looking. Travel Hopefully. The Universe will surprise you. Constantly.”
The Future
Fans have a while to go before Whittaker’s departure as the 13th Doctor. Season 13 of Doctor Who begins this fall, telling a single story spread over six episodes. And then next year, three special episodes will air – one on New Year’s, one in the spring, and a final feature-length one in the fall. At this time, the BBC has not confirmed a new showrunner or a 14th Doctor. But they did say they will “announce plans for the new generation of Doctor Who in due course.” So, keep your eyes peeled. Until then, we’ve still got a few adventures to look forward to!
How do you feel about Whittaker and Chibnall’s departure? Who would you like to see as the 14th Doctor?
Source: BBC.
Part-time writer, part-time theatre nerd, full-time dork.
