The Sex Education actor will lead the next version of Doctor Who under Russell T Davies.
The BBC have announced the identity of the next Doctor: actor Ncuti Gatwa will take on the role when Jodie Whittaker leaves Doctor Who later this year.
Gatwa, who is aged 29, is best known for his role as teenager Eric Effiong in the Netflix show Sex Education. The Scottish actor, who was born in Rwanda, has also had roles in Bob Servant and Stonemouth.
He also appears in Horrible Histories: The Movie – Rotten Romans, and is listed in the cast of the currently filming Margo Robbie-fronted Barbie.
Speaking of his casing, Ncuti Gatwa says:
“There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared. 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. I will endeavour my utmost to do the same”
“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. An actor’s metaphorical playground. The entire team has 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.”
“bright and bold and brilliant”
Showrunner Russell T Davies added:
“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!”
Jodie Whittaker is leaving the role during Doctor Who‘s BBC Centenary Special this year. It’s due to air in the autumn but there are few specifics after that.
What we do know is that Russell T Davies is returning to his role as showrunner, making the show for the BBC with independent production company Bad Wolf. We were promised a “60th Anniversary Special” and “series beyond” with Davies in charge back in September.
As ever, CultBox will keep you posted.