There have been a number of rumors swirling around Doctor Who, and answers finally arrived in the season 15 finale, though they weren’t the answers anyone expected. While Doctor Who fans are used to twists and surprises, this latest reveal was on another level, as we say get a cameo from a past Doctor, say goodbye to the current Doctor, and then say hello to the new Doctor, and we’re diving into full spoilers from here on out.
In the season 15 finale, Ncuti Gatwa has his final scene as the Doctor after two seasons with the show, and fans watch him regenerate into the next Doctor. In the episode’s most shocking turn though, Gatwa regenerates into Billie Piper, who is one of the show’s most popular companions. Piper was featured on the show when it first made its big return in 2005, and played the role of Rose Tyler. Tyler was the companion for both Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant’s Doctors, and now she’s back, but this time she is stepping into the role of the Doctor.
A Doctor Who Farewell
In the official reveal from Doctor Who, Ncuti Gatwa spoke about his time on the show and passing the baton to the next Doctor. “You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it,” Gatwa said. “This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever. There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe.”
“The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show and I can’t thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in, and making this such a touching experience,” Gatwa said. “I’ve loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have. I’ll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.”
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Showrunner Russell T Davies said, “What a Doctor! Thank you, Ncuti! As his final words say, this has been an absolute joy, and the team in Cardiff and everyone who has worked on this show for the past few years, are so lucky to have been part of Ncuti’s great adventure as he shoots off to stratospheric new heights.”
Lindsay Salt, Director of Drama added, “When Ncuti Gatwa first stepped foot on the TARDIS we instantly knew he was going to be an iconic Doctor and it wasn’t long before his dazzling performances captured the hearts of so many around the globe. The role of the Doctor is like no other and Ncuti’s dedication, charisma and magnetism has taken the Doctor into unchartered territory which we have never experienced before. As Ncuti himself said at the start of this journey – unlike the Doctor he may only have one heart, but he is giving it all to this role – I think we can all agree that he did that, and more. Thanks, Ncuti for being such a special part of the Whoniverse.”
The Next Doctor
Regarding Piper’s return, Davies teased that there are more questions regarding the return that need answers. “Billie once changed the whole of television, back in 2005, and now she’s done it again! It’s an honour and a hoot to welcome her back to the TARDIS, but quite how and why and who is a story yet to be told,” Davies said. “After 62 years, the Doctor’s adventures are only just beginning!”
For Piper, returning to the show is a dream come true. “It’s no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there,” Piper said. “So to be given the opportunity to step back on that TARDIS one more time was just something I couldn’t refuse, but who, how, why, and when, you’ll just have to wait and see.”
As for the status of the next season, that is still clouded in uncertainty. A plan seems to be in place, though, and this is sure to draw up buzz, so hopefully we’ll get a full season announcement soon with Piper in the lead role.
What did you think of the big twist, and are you excited to see Piper back on the show? Let us know in the comments, and you can talk all things TV and Doctor Who with me on Bluesky @knightofoa!
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