BAFTA-nominated star will replace Jodie Whittaker in iconic role
As if 'Doctor Who' fans couldn't be excited enough with Russell T. Davies returning to the helm of the famous sci-fi series, a new actor has been cast in the iconic lead role.
Ncuti Gatawa, best known for playing Eric on the Netflix hit 'Sex Education' was announced as the next Doctor on Sunday afternoon.
The Rwandan-Scottish actor said "This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care, and I will endeavour my upmost to do the same."
BAFTA nominated for his turn as Eric in 'Sex Education', the actor expressed excitement at the chance of working with Russell T Davies.
"Russell T Davies is almost as iconic as the Doctor himself and being able to work with him is a dream come true. His writing is dynamic, exciting, incredibly intelligent and fizzing with danger."
The star dubbed working under the 'It's A Sin' and 'Queer As Folk' mastermind as "an actor’s metaphorical playground."
"The entire team have been so welcoming and truly give their hearts to the show. And so as much as it’s daunting, I’m aware I’m joining a really supportive family."
Unlike the Doctor, I may only have one heart but I am giving it all to this show," he added.
Russell T Davies, returning to the showrunner fold after the David Tennant era of the 2000s, said Russell T Davies declared "the future is here and it’s Ncuti!"
"Sometimes talent walks through the door and it’s so bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand back in awe and thank my lucky stars. Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds."
"It’s an honour to work with him, and a hoot, I can’t wait to get started. I’m sure you’re dying to know more, but we’re rationing ourselves for now, with the wonderful Jodie’s epic finale yet to come. But I promise you, 2023 will be spectacular!"
The second Davies era will begin in 2023, with the show looking to give Jodie Whittikar's iteration of the doctor her send-off, and in grand 'Doctor Who' fashion, let the doctor regenerate into a new form.