The BBC have confirmed recent rumours that the traditional Christmas Special slot has moved from Christmas Day to New Year's Day. Below is the BBC press release in full:

With 2018 marking a brand new era for Doctor Who it is only right that 2019 kicks off in spectacular style. 

So to mark the occasion, in this year’s festive episode the TARDIS will travel through the time vortex from its traditional timeslot on Christmas Day and will land in style on New Year’s Day.

Charlotte Moore, Director of Content, says:

“We’re delighted the Doctor and her companions will be welcoming BBC One audiences into 2019 with this exciting new episode. The Doctor's fans are in for a special treat on the first day of the new year.”

Showrunner, Chris Chibnall says:

“We’re thrilled to be starting the New Year with a bang on BBC One, as Jodie Whittaker’s Doctor and friends face a terrifying alien threat in an action-packed, hour-long special adventure for all the family.”

As the New Year begins, a terrifying evil is stirring from across the centuries of Earth’s history. As the Doctor, Ryan, Graham and Yaz return home, will they be able to overcome the threat to planet Earth?

[Source: BBC Studios]

The overnight ratings are in for 11.4: Arachnids In The UK.

The episode achieved an overnight viewing figure of 6.43m viewers, with a 29.3% audience share.

The final BARB ratings will be confirmed in the next 7 days, and will include the time shift which will see a rise in the final rating.

Series 11, Accumulative Viewing Figures:
11.1: The Woman Who Fell To Earth - 8.2m / 40.1% share. Final BARB: 10.54m / AI: 83.
11.2: The Ghost Monument - 7.1m / 33.4% audience share. Final BARB TBC.
11.3: Rosa - 6.4m / 29.6% audience share. Final BARB TBC.
11.4: Arachnids In The UK - 6.4m / 29.3% audience share. Final BARB TBC.   

+  What did you think of the episode? Rate / Discuss in the DWO Forums!

[Source: DWO]

The overnight ratings are in for 11.3: Rosa.

The episode achieved an overnight viewing figure of 6.39m viewers, with a 29.6% audience share.

The final BARB ratings will be confirmed in the next 7 days, and will include the time shift which will see a rise in the final rating. DWO expect the final consolidated figure to be considerably higher than average, due to the interest in the episode.

Series 11, Accumulative Viewing Figures:
11.1: The Woman Who Fell To Earth - 8.2m / 40.1% share. Final BARB: 10.54m / AI: 83.
11.2: The Ghost Monument - 7.1m / 33.4% audience share. Final BARB TBC.
11.3: Rosa - 6.4m / 29.6% audience share. Final BARB TBC.  

+  What did you think of the episode? Rate / Discuss in the DWO Forums!

[Source: DWO]

The overnight ratings are in for 11.2: The Ghost Monument.

The episode achieved an overnight viewing figure of 7.1m viewers, with a 33.4% audience share.

The final BARB ratings will be confirmed in the next 7 days, and will include the time shift which will see a rise in the final rating.

Series 11, Accumulative Viewing Figures:
11.1: The Woman Who Fell To Earth - 8.2m / 40.1% share. Final BARB: 10.54m / AI: 83.
11.2: The Ghost Monument - 7.1m / 33.4% audience share. Final BARB TBC.
11.3: Rosa - 6.4m / 29.6% audience share. Final BARB TBC.

+  What did you think of the episode? Rate / Discuss in the DWO Forums!

[Source: DWO]

There is a wonderful sense of renewal as we head into Series 11. We have a new show runner, a new writing team, a new composer, a new look and feel - heck, even a new airdate...oh, there's also a new Doctor!

In fact, there hasn't been this much change since the show returned in 2005, but change has always been at the heart of Doctor Who, and its heart is beating as strong as ever.

From the beautiful opening shots of a hilly Sheffield, we are introduced to our new companions, and, after a little exposition, we're thrown right into the action.

About 5 minutes in, it became refreshingly apparent just how little we all know about this new series. Being at the forefront of Doctor Who news and information, it can be tricky to avoid plot details and images (thanks to the many emails we get from our visitors), but for once, every single scene was fresh and new, and unspoiled. Kudos really has to go to the production team on a sterling effort to protect the show's secrets!

We are incredibly hesitant to talk too much about the episode, but what we can say is just how different it feels to the new series direction, thus far. That being said, there's a comforting familiarity, too. This isn't a radical change for the sake of change - it's an evolutional change that takes the show in a bold new direction.

The fact that The Doctor (Jodie Whittaker) now happens to be a woman, really isn't as big of a deal in the show as you would think. I mean, of course it's a big deal in the grand scheme of equality and diversity, and for girls (and boys) to have a rolemodel they can look up to, but, as far as the canonical issue of The Doctor now being a woman is concerned, she is every bit The Doctor as her predecessors, and it's business as usual.

Let's unpack Jodie's Doctor a bit more though. From the second you see her on screen, there's no time for you to question the if's or how's - it's straight into the action, and nitty gritty of getting to the bottom of the alien threat of the story. In fact, it isn't really until about two thirds in that there is a breathing space for her Doctor to start to unfurl who she is. That being said, by the time the credits roll, there is no question that this is The Doctor and she very much knows what kind of a woman she is.

As for our companions, Ryan (Tosin Cole), Yaz (Mandip Gill) and Graham (Bradley Walsh), again, we want to keep light on the detail, but they fit in perfectly with Jodie's Doctor, and all 4 of them already have a wonderful camaraderie with each other and The Doctor. Very much like with the Russell T. Davies era, you genuinely care about the characters, and the fact that there are consequences and fallout from actions and situations in the episodes.

The overall feel of the show is like a perfect mesh between new and classic who in its delivery. It's the familiarity we mentioned early on, and although it's hard to quantify exactly why, there are a couple of moments that stand out, and if you happen to be a fan of the classic series, you will know exactly what we mean.

That being said, this is still very much new ground we are treading. Gone are the monsters of old (for now), and before us stands a brave new world full of scary new threats. It all feels more real and grittier, and you can't help but feel like anything could happen.

To any of you still doubting Jodie as The Doctor, honestly, genuinely you have nothing to fear! She encompasses everything The Doctor was and is, and if this episode alone is anything to go by, we hope it is the start of a long tenure in the role.

Quick mention of Segun Akinola's powerful musical score! It's a little Broadchurch-y in places, and somewhat industrial, too, which feels very different to what we've become used to, but it totally fits. Music is such an important part of Doctor Who, and it really sets the tone of the series. We don't get a title sequence for episode one, but there is a little cue of the new theme in the episode, and it is truly fantastic! Hold out until the end credits and you may just start to fall in love with our new composer!

Finally, a huge tip of the hat to Chris Chibnall for an episode that feels so much larger than the sum of its parts. Beautiful dialogue, believable, earthy characters and an emotional vein that makes you care about them. Between Jodie and Chris, the show is truly in good hands, and what an exciting time it is to be a Doctor Who fan!

5 Things To Look Out For:

1)  A poignant bookend.
2)  Teeth.
3)  A nose-picking Doctor?!
4)  Sheffield Steel.
5)  A moment at the end that is pure Classic Who!

+ 11.1: The Woman Who Fell To Earth airs on Sunday 7th October at 6:45pm on BBC One.

[Source: DWO]

The BBC have just released a second full trailer for Series 11 of Doctor Who, which you can view, below:

+ 11.1: The Woman Who Fell To Earth airs on Sunday 7th October on BBC One.

[Source: BBC Studios]

 

The BBC have unveiled a new iconic image for Series 11 of Doctor Who, along with information for the first two episodes and some interviews!

Bigger and bolder than ever, this series marks the arrival of Jodie Whittaker, the Thirteenth Doctor - a super-smart force of nature, alongside a team of new and delightful characters. This series is full of action and adventure, humour and thrills - an unmissable drama everyone will enjoy.

Alongside Jodie’s Thirteenth Doctor, is an all new cast with Bradley Walsh, Mandip Gill and Tosin Cole. 

The series showrunner, Chris Chibnall, said:
 

“Finally – Jodie Whittaker’s Thirteenth Doctor is about to crash land on to the nation’s screens. It’s thrilling to think, there will be children encountering Jodie’s Doctor in the next few weeks who’ve never seen the show before. She’ll be forever their Doctor: you never forget your first. 

 

Alongside Jodie, we have a delightful ensemble of new characters for the audience to fall in love with, led by the incomparable Bradley Walsh.

 

So break out the popcorn and hunker down for Sunday night adventures in space and time, with the Thirteenth Doctor and her new best friends. The journey’s about to begin.”
 

Episode One: The Woman Who Fell To Earth
Action-adventure for all the family, starring Jodie Whittaker, Bradley Walsh, Tosin Cole and Mandip Gill. 

 

“We don’t get aliens in Sheffield.” In a South Yorkshire city, Ryan Sinclair, Yasmin Khan and Graham O’Brien are about to have their lives changed forever, as a mysterious woman, unable to remember her own name, falls from the night sky. Can they believe a word she says? And can she help solve the strange events taking place across the city?

 

Guest starring Sharon D Clarke, Johnny Dixon and Samuel Oatley. Written by Chris Chibnall and directed by Jamie Childs.

 

Episode Two: The Ghost Monument
Still reeling from their first encounter, can the Doctor and her new friends stay alive long enough, in a hostile alien environment , to solve the mystery of Desolation? And just who are Angstrom and Epzo?

 

Guest starring Shaun Dooley, Susan Lynch and Art Malik. Written by Chris Chibnall and directed by Mark Tonderai.

Interview: Jodie Whittaker - The Doctor

 

Why should viewers tune in this series?

If you’ve never seen the show before this is a great season to start with. It doesn’t need an encyclopedic knowledge of Doctor Who to get into it.
 

The show has a very rich history of about 55 years. The wonderful thing about this is every time there’s new cast members, and new Doctors or new companions, the show is regenerated in a literal sense with the character. New energy is brought into it.

We wanted to make a series that was very inclusive because for people like me, we’re all very new Whovians as well. We’re introduced into this world as new fans will be on this season.

What do fans have to look forward to this series?

If you’re a fan of the show already, it’s got everything you expect. It’s got new monsters, it’s got fantastic new worlds. It’s also got worlds that we’re familiar with, but are maybe seen from different points of view. It honours everything that has gone before, but it then has a different burst of energy with all the new cast members. Doctor Who is for everyone and anyone.

What journey do the characters go on this series?

This season is ten stand­alone episodes so you have contained storylines within every episode. So you have a huge series character arc for many of the characters. But if you come in at episode five, you’ll get a stand-alone story which feels like a film, and which stands up amongst all the television that’s available to anyone now.

What themes do you think are important this series?

Friendship and loyalty and survival. All things that are very human, interlaced with things that are very far from human and familiar. It’s a very inclusive world. 

When I watch TV and film I want to feel engrossed and excited, particularly in this world and genre. Doctor Who in itself is its own genre. I suppose you want it to feel like a roller coaster ride!

Interview: Chris Chibnall - Showrunner

Do viewers need to have seen Doctor Who before to enjoy this series?

Not at all. This series is the perfect stepping on point.

 

With the new Doctor you’ve got a new beginning, a new opportunity for people to join the show as viewers, for people who might have drifted away or haven’t seen the show for a few years, or 10 years or 20 years; it’s a great time to remind people of how amazing Doctor Who is and to have a restart. But also, it’s a great time for a new generation of children and families to start the habit of gathering around the television together to watch this funny, scary, extraordinary show!

It’s not a reboot it’s just that great, unique thing which is built into Doctor Who: a fresh start happens every few years. This is no different to when Tom Baker changed to Peter Davison, or when the show went from black and white to colour, with Patrick Troughton handing over to Jon Pertwee. The show has a history of renewal, while also staying faithful to what it is.

It’s the amazing thing about Doctor Who is this fresh start every few years which brings a whole new jolt of energy to the show. And hopefully encourages the next generation of audiences to try the show, while also reminding existing audiences why they love it.

Casting a new actor also brings in new opportunities to think about where the show is, think about where the world is, think about where you might want the stories to go. I hope we’ve got a fresh set of stories that are engaged with, and resonate with, the world we live in now.

What can viewers expect this series?

You can expect emotion, you can expect action and adventure and monsters and far off planets and huge alien vistas. You can expect a lot of humour, a lot of warmth and some great characters.

Four great new friends for you to meet as they go through past, present and future and meet some incredible people from history and go and battle on alien planets and fight threats closer to home. 

It’s really a whole array of different stories. Ten individual stories that show off the range of the Thirteenth Doctor and her friends but also of the show as a whole. I hope you can expect everything you’ve ever loved about Doctor Who.

More than anything, it’s hopefully incredibly entertaining and I think this series has something for absolutely everyone. If you’ve seen Doctor Who before I hope we’re going to be giving you all the stuff you love. If you’ve never seen it before, this is the place to start and I think you’re in for a rollicking ride.

Interview: Bradley Walsh is Graham O'Brien

Have you enjoyed being part of this year's ensemble cast?

I love being part of an ensemble. I love it. Jodie leads from the front and she’s fun and she’s upbeat and she keeps it all together – it’s great.

Working with Jodie, Mandip and Tosin and the different directors that are coming in, and this fantastic crew – that’s the thing I’m enjoying most about being on Doctor Who.

How do you think audiences will react to the Thirteenth Doctor?

I think they’re going to be excited by Jodie and I’ll tell you for why... Not only is she an exceptional actress, the energy she brings, because she’s still so young, the energy she brings is extraordinary. To keep up with her is hard work! 

Describe the show in a sentence. 

This new dawn for Doctor Who will be ground­ breaking and exciting and fantastic and unpredictable and beautiful and timeless.

I’m telling you now, this is going to be so brilliant. Jodie is fantastic! She works so hard and is so enthusiastic. She leads from the front and she’ll trailblaze for a lot of other shows.

 

The new series of Doctor Who in a sentence is forward thinking, innovative, bold and brave.

+ 11.1: The Woman Who Fell To Earth airs on Sunday 7th October on BBC One. 

[Source: BBC Studios]

   

The last time viewers saw the Doctor, she was falling from her TARDIS so it’s about time for the Doctor to land. This time it’s all change, as Doctor Who is moving to Sunday nights, launching on Sunday 7th October.

Never before in the show’s history has an entire series descended to earth on a Sunday. This year marks a brand new era with a new Showrunner, a new Doctor, new friends and a whole host of new monsters – so it’s only fitting that the new Time Lord will land in a new time zone on BBC One.

Chris Chibnall, Showrunner said:

“New Doctor, new home! Jodie Whittaker’s Doctor is about to burst into Sunday nights — and make the end of the weekend so much more exciting.  Get everybody’s homework done, sort out your Monday clothes, then grab some special Sunday night popcorn, and settle down with all of the family for Sunday night adventures across space and time. (Also, move the sofa away from the wall so parents can hide behind it during the scary bits). The Thirteenth Doctor is falling from the sky and it’s going to be a blast.”

Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content said:

“With Chris Chibnall at the helm and Jodie Whittaker’s arrival as the new Doctor we are heralding a brand new era for the show and so it feels only right to give it a new home on Sunday nights at the heart of BBC One’s Autumn schedule. ” 

Showrunner Chris Chibnall has written the first episode of the brand new series which is titled “The Woman Who Fell to Earth”. With the Doctor on her way it’s only a matter of time before viewers can enjoy being transported out of this world this autumn.

[Source: BBC Studios]

   

It is with deepest regret that DWO announces the passing of New Series Production Designer, Michael Pickwoad.

Michael joined the production team during Matt Smith's first Christmas story; A Christmas Carol, and remained in the role of production designer for a total of 71 episodes - right through to Peter Capaldi's final episode as The Doctor in Twice Upon A Time.

Michael's other career highlights include directing credits for; Class, Withnail And I, The Prisoner and Poirot (to name just a few).

DWO would like to extend our sympathies to Michael's family and friends.

[Source: DWO]

The BBC has announced the full list of writers and directors for the new series of Doctor Who, launching this autumn on BBC One.

Showrunner Chris Chibnall, said:

“We have a team of writers who’ve been working quietly and secretly for a long time now, crafting characters, worlds and stories to excite and move you. A set of directors who stood those scripts up on their feet, bringing those ideas, visuals and emotions into existence with bravura and fun. 

 

Hailing from a range of backgrounds, tastes and styles, here’s what unites them: they are awesome people as well as brilliant at their job. (It matters!) They love Doctor Who. And they’ve all worked above and beyond the call of duty in an effort to bring audiences something special, later this year.” 

Writers

Former Children’s Laureate Malorie Blackman has written over 60 books for children and young adults including the Noughts and Crosses series of novels, and her book Pig-Heart Boy, which was adapted into a BAFTA-winning, six-part TV serial. 

 

Malorie says:

“I’ve always loved Doctor Who. Getting the chance to write for this series has definitely been a dream come true.”

 

Ed Hime was nominated for a Craft BAFTA for his first episode of Skins, and won the Prix Italia for his radio play The Incomplete Recorded Works of a Dead Body.

 

Ed says:

“Writing for this series comes down to the adventure really, and telling emotionally engaging stories to bring everyone along with you.”

 

Playwright and screenwriter Vinay Patel’s television debut, Murdered By My Father, won the 2016 Royal Television Society Award for Best Single Drama and was nominated for three BAFTAs. 

 

Vinay says:

“I grew up watching shows like Star Trek and Quantum Leap on the edge of my dad’s bed, and I loved how they managed to capture the imagination of a kid like me as well as acting as a moral compass. I never imagined that I’d get to write for Doctor Who – I was pretty thrilled.”

 

Pete McTighe is the originating writer of Wentworth, the female prison drama that has sold to over 150 countries. He’s written over a hundred hours of TV drama and been nominated for five Writers Guild Awards. 

 

Pete says:

"My entire television career has quite literally been an elaborate plan to get to write Doctor Who – and no one is more shocked than me that it paid off. I've been having the time of my life working with Chris, and writing for Jodie and the new team, and can't wait for everyone to see what we've been up to."

 

Joy Wilkinson has been selected as a Screen International Star of Tomorrow and has had two screenplays featured on the Brit List. Her TV scripts include the critically-acclaimed BBC five-parter The Life and Adventures of Nick Nickleby, while her theatre work has won prizes including the Verity Bargate Award. 

 

Joy says:

"I loved the show and felt like it might be a good fit for me, but I knew it was really hard to get onto. So quite frankly I’m still pinching myself to be here!”

Directors

Sallie Aprahamian has been directing television for over two decades with critically acclaimed shows including: Extremely Dangerous, The Sins, Real Men, The Lakes, Teachers and This Life. 

 

Sallie’s memories of Doctor Who go right back to the 1960s, when William Hartnell created the role. She says:

“I watched the First Doctor from behind the sofa through my fingers, frightened and exhilarated. I was really delighted, as a fan and as a director, to be invited to work on the first female Doctor’s series. What a brilliant time to be on the show!”

 

Jamie Childs, who directed Jodie Whittaker’s reveal as the Thirteenth Doctor, returns for the opening episode of the new series. 

 

Jamie says:

"Doctor Who represents an important part of our television landscape. We tend to avoid making many shows in Britain that really allow the audience to properly escape, and Doctor Who has been doing this for decades. So yes, sign me up – I’ve always wanted to be part of that! There really aren’t many shows made over here that allow the viewer to travel to another universe.”

 

Jennifer Perrott wrote, directed, produced and executive produced her award-winning 35mm short film The Ravens. Since finishing Doctor Who she has been directing Gentleman Jack, a forthcoming BBC One/HBO historical drama series created by Sally Wainwright.

 

Jennifer says:

“Doctor Who is an iconic show and one I’d loved as a child, especially when Tom Baker was the Doctor. Space travel has become more a part of modern life and this has opened the door for more human stories to be told amidst the escapist fantasy of saving the world from alien invasion. The aliens are now as emotionally complex as the humans, and I was really excited by that.”

 

Mark Tonderai went to school in Zimbabwe and architecture school in Kingston, before landing a job at the BBC as a trainee presenter. Mark has directed the full season of The Five, Impulse, Lucifer, Gotham, Black Lightning, George RR Martin’s Nightflyers and Jennifer Lawrence thriller House at the End of the Street.

 

Mark says:

“What was really crucial in my decision to direct the show was Chris Chibnall. I’m a huge fan of his and I like the way he sees the world. He has this ability to entertain and also deliver truths – questions, too – about who we are. And he does it all with a hint of a smile.”
 

[Source: BBC Studios]

   

Thirteenth Doctor Jodie Whittaker today teased the new series of Doctor Who by unveiling a new logo and insignia for the brand to over 700 of the world’s top TV buyers and international press at BBC Worldwide’s annual showcase event in Liverpool. In an evening devoted to the new incarnation of Doctor Who, Whittaker built excitement in anticipation of the new era of The Doctor, leaving global broadcasters in no doubt as to the sense of wonder, joy and mystery the forthcoming series promises audiences.

The Doctor Who logo is an iconic and powerful trademark for the franchise that is recognised all around the world. The updated logo and insignia mark a new era of WHO. BBC Worldwide commissioned creative agency Little Hawk to create the brand new designs, working closely with Showrunner Chris Chibnall and Executive Producer Matt Strevens.

BBC Worldwide Executive Creative Director, Rafaela Perera says:

“The Doctor Who logo and insignia are the quintessential signifier for the brand. Our aim was to create modern and elegant designs that were anchored in the things that we love most about Doctor Who.”

The sound for the animated logo is created by Matthew Herbert. It will launch with a 10 second animation which features the TARDIS blazing a trail through the logo. All official Doctor Who merchandise featuring the new logo will be available at selected retailers from 20th February 2018.

Doctor Who is a BBC Studios production for BBC One and a BBC America co-production. BBC Worldwide are the international distributors for Doctor Who.

Below is the 10-second logo animation trailer:

DWO Opinion:

What do you think of the new Doctor Who logo? Let us know in the comments, below! 

[Source: BBC Worldwide]

   

As we write our spoiler-free preview for Peter Capaldi's final outing as The Doctor, we are reminded of a particular verse from 'Beauty And The Beast';

Tale as old as time,
Tune as old as song,
Bitter-sweet and strange,
Finding you can change,
Learning you were wrong.

This is a show that has been around for over 50 years, and whilst many of us think we know it inside out, now and again a writer comes along and adds a new slant on things, that allows us to understand and appreciate it in a whole new light. This episode is bitter-sweet, its strange, and if you would allow us to follow this comparison through to conclusion, it's about finding you can change and indeed learning you were wrong.

Everything begins with a poignant "previously" recap, with some on-screen text stating "709 episodes ago". We see The 1st Doctor in scenes from The Tenth Planet, and William Hartnell's Doctor morph into that of David Bradley's, and at no point after this moment do we ever question that Bradley's Doctor IS The 1st Doctor. It's loyally executed and cleverly explains why Bradley doesn't look exactly like Hartnell, and even hammers a nail into a question that arose from 'The Brain Of Morbius', regarding the Doctor's past regenerations.

Mark Gatiss, provides a third male lead in the story as 'The Captain', who is, by far, our favourite of all of Mark's characters in the show to date - yes - even more than Gantok! His character is layered and without stereotype, and will have you reaching for the hankies by the end. We cannot give away much regarding his role, but the setting is incredibly important and leads to a memorable close.

We mentioned about this being a strange story, but this is no bad thing. It is strange in the fact we don't really have a villain; it's more a beautiful character piece, that affords us an interesting, well-paced send-off for Capaldi's Doctor. It brings The 1st Doctor back to life in all the ways we knew, but gives us something new, and Bradley's performance is just fantastic! Capaldi and Bradley spark off each other incredibly well, and there are some truly laugh-out-loud moments during the episode - some of which include Pearl Mackie's Bill and The 1st Doctor. Bill is a very modern woman, and The 1st Doctor...isn't.

There are little 'timey-wimey' moments that Steven Moffat has peppered throughout the story, that hardcore fans will recognise and love, without alienating or distracting from the story. Steven has to be commended for this beautiful tale; for it IS beautiful, in so many ways. It rounds off his tenure as head writer and showrunner, perfectly, and sets him up to be remembered as one of the most important guiding forces in the shows entire, long history.

If recent rumours are to be believed that the show's composer, Murray Gold, will indeed be stepping down after this Christmas special, then there are most definitely hints of this in the score. Look out for new versions of some of his most memorable compositions, including a slightly melancholic rendition of the 'Doomsday' theme from the end of Series 2. It feels like Murray is saying goodbye to us throughout the episode, and it's heart-breaking. It's no secret that we're huge fans of his work; you only have to look back through our many reviews and previews to see how much we mention him, but then, his music has become an important part of the show - a constant that helps you feel that little bit more emotion in pivotal scenes. For this we salute you Murray, and thank you for all you have done.

Whilst we are saying our goodbyes, we have to pay tribute to Peter Capaldi for his tremendous portrayal of The Doctor. Series 10 was hands-down the best to feature his Doctor, and he takes all of the gravitas and hard work gained throughout the momentum of Series 10, and literally goes out in a blaze of glory in 'Twice Upon A Time'. We always wondered just how amazing a fourth series with Capaldi could be, but, alas, it wasn't meant to be. That being said, there is someone new, exciting and totally right for the job, and she's about to take the show in a new, exciting direction! Welcome aboard, Jodie!

5 Things To Look Out For:

1)  3 perspectives.
2)  "Smacked Bottom".
3)  An old friend in a tower.
4)  "So that's what it means to be a Doctor of war!"
5)  A gift that, if you're a regular viewer, will give you a lump in your throat.

+  11.X: Twice Upon A Time airs Christmas Day at 5:30pm on BBC One.

[Source: DWO]

When Jodie Whittaker takes over as the Thirteenth Doctor on the global hit show next year, she will be joined by an all new regular cast. The BBC has today announced that Bradley Walsh, Tosin Cole and Mandip Gill will line-up as the new regular cast on Doctor Who.

Bradley will star as Graham, Tosin will play Ryan and Mandip will play Yasmin. Also joining the series in a returning role is Sharon D Clarke.

New head writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall, who made the decision to cast the first ever woman in the iconic role, is also shaking up who will travel with the Doctor in the TARDIS, with a team of new characters.

In more exclusive news, it is confirmed that the new series will be a ten week run of fifty minute episodes in Autumn 2018, kicking off with a feature length hour for the opening launch.

Chris Chibnall says:

“The new Doctor is going to need new friends. We’re thrilled to welcome Mandip, Tosin and Bradley to the Doctor Who family. They’re three of Britain’s brightest talents and we can’t wait to see them dive into brand new adventures with Jodie’s Doctor. Alongside them, we’re delighted that Sharon D Clarke is also joining the show."

Jodie Whittaker says:

"I am so excited to share this huge adventure with Mandip, Tosin and Bradley. It's a dream team!"

Bradley Walsh says:

“I remember watching William Hartnell as the first Doctor. Black and white made it very scary for a youngster like myself. I was petrified but even though I’d watch most of it from behind the sofa through my fingers, I became a fan. I then queued up for ages to get into the Carlton picture house in Watford to watch the great Peter Cushing appear as the Doctor in a full length feature film made in glorious colour. Am I thrilled to be part of this whole ground breaking new dawn for the DoctorjQuery15205138140516301002_1508762687331 Oh yes!”

Mandip Gill says:

“I am over the moon to be joining the Doctor Who family. This is an iconic show with an amazing fanbase and I look forward to everything that brings. Certain roles seem unattainable and this is one of those, so much so I didn't believe it to be true for the first few weeks. To be working alongside the likes of Jodie, Bradley and my old friend Tosin is thrilling. This show is worlds away from the work I've done previously and that's the part that excites me the most.”

Tosin Cole says:

"I'm grateful and excited to be a part of this journey with the team. I'm looking forward to jumping in this Doctor Who universe."

Matt Strevens, Executive Producer, BBC Studios says:

“I am thrilled to welcome Bradley, Mandip and Tosin to the new Who family. Working with three such talented actors is going to be a lot of fun. The Doctor is in fine company.”

Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama says:

"The casting of Mandip, Tosin and Bradley is a mark of the new creative ambition Chris is bringing to Doctor Who. He's already made history with the casting of Jodie. These three new characters complete a new and utterly unmissable team aboard the Tardis."

[Source: BBC Worldwide]

   

Peter Capaldi’s final episode of Doctor Who this Christmas will feature Pearl Mackie as Bill Potts and be called Twice Upon A Time, it was announced this evening during a cast panel at San Diego Comic Con. Viewers will have to wait until Christmas to discover exactly how Bill, who will appear throughout the episode, makes her return.

It was also revealed that Mark Gatiss, who will co-star in the episode in a guest role, will play a World War One soldier - known so far only as ‘The Captain’.

As previously revealed in the closing moments of the 2017 series finale, the special will feature Peter Capaldi’s current Doctor team up with the First Doctor, played by David Bradley. 

Watch the teaser trailer in the player, below:

[Source: BBC Worldwide]

   

The BBC today announced to the world that Jodie Whittaker will be the 13th Doctor in Doctor Who. 

The identity of the new Doctor was revealed exclusively on BBC One and on social media around the world after the Men’s Wimbledon Final on Sunday 16th July.

She will be the Thirteenth Time Lord (or is that Time Lady) and take over from Peter Capaldi who leaves the global hit show at Christmas.

New head writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall who takes over from Steven Moffat on the next series made the decision to cast the first ever woman in the iconic role. 

Jodie Whittaker says:

“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.”

Chris Chibnall, New Head Writer and Executive Producer says:  

“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.”

Peter Capaldi says:

“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.” 

Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content says:

“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 says:

"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 says:

"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."  

13 Quick Fire Questions, Answered By Jodie Whittaker:

1) What does it feel like to be the Thirteenth Doctor?

It’s very nerve-racking, as it’s been so secret!

2) Why did you want the role?

To be asked to play the ultimate character, to get to play pretend in the truest form:  this is why I wanted to be an actor in the first place. To be able to play someone who is literally reinvented on screen, with all the freedoms that brings: what an unbelievable opportunity. And added to that, to be the first woman in that role.

3) Has it been hard to keep the secret?

Yes. Very hard! I’ve told a lot of lies! I’ve embroiled myself in a whole world of lies which is going to come back at me when this is announced!

4) Who was the first person you told when you got the role?

My husband. Because I was allowed to!

5) Did you have a codename and if so what was it?

In my home, and with my agent, it was The Clooney. Because to me and my husband, George is an iconic guy. And we thought: what’s a really famous iconic name? It was just fitting.

6) What does it feel like to be the first woman Doctor?

It feels completely overwhelming, as a feminist, as a woman, as an actor, as a human, as someone who wants to continually push themselves and challenge themselves, and not be boxed in by what you’re told you can and can’t be. It feels incredible.

7) What do you want to tell the fans?

I want to tell the fans not to be scared by my gender. Because this is a really exciting time, and Doctor Who represents everything that’s exciting about change. The fans have lived through so many changes, and this is only a new, different one, not a fearful one.

8) What are you most excited about?

I’m most excited about becoming part of a family I didn’t even know existed. I was born in 1982, it’s been around longer than me, and it’s a family I couldn’t ever have dreamed I’d be part of. 

9) How did Chris sell you the part?

We had a strange chat earlier this year where he tricked me into thinking we were talking about Broadchurch. And I started to quiz him about his new job in Wales, and asked him if I could be a baddie! And he quickly diverted the conversation to suggest I should consider auditioning to be the 13th Clooney.

It was the most incredible chat because I asked every question under the sun, and I said I’d take a few weeks to decide whether I was going to audition. He got a phone call within 24 hours. He would’ve got a phone call sooner, but my husband was away and there was a time difference! 

10) Did he persuade you? 

No. There was no persuasion needed. If you need to be persuaded to do this part, you’re not right for this part, and the part isn’t right for you. I also think, for anyone taking this on, you have to want to fight for it, which I certainly had to do. I know there will have been some phenomenal actors who threw their hats in the ring. 

11) What are you going to wear? 

Don’t know yet.

12) Is that your costume in the filmed sequence which introduced you as the new Doctor?

No.

13) Have any of the other Doctors given you advice? 

Well they can’t because they haven’t known until now, but I’m certainly expecting a couple of calls – I’ve got a couple of mates in there. I’m mates with a companion [Arthur Darvill], I’m mates with a trio of Doctors. I know Matt Smith, Chris Eccleston and obviously David Tennant. Oh! And let’s throw in David Bradley! Four Doctors! So I’m hoping I get some calls of advice. 

Watch the official reveal video in the player, below:

[Source: BBC Worldwide]