After much rumour and speculation, the 13th actor to play the iconic Time Lord in Doctor Who was revealed this morning, following Federer’s win in the Men’s Wimbledon Singles final. While we know we’re not alone in wishing they’d wait until the Christmas regeneration episode to surprise us with the next Doctor, the reveal was nonetheless met with wild excitement from fans of the series. So who have they cast?
Well much to the disappointment of many who petitioned for it, it will not be Tilda Swinton. But it will not be the much rumoured Kris Marshall either. It will indeed be a female actor – a first for the series and a move sure to send plenty of waves through the Who fan base, a sentiment one former Doctor has summed up well:
Change my dears and not a moment too soon – she IS the Doctor whether you like it or not!
— Colin Baker (@SawbonesHex) July 16, 2017
The actor set to play the part is Broadchurch star Jodie Whittaker. Having performed alongside former Doctor David Tennant on the show, and with Broadchurch’s showrunner replacing Moffat, it feels like a strong fit. And its fair to say she’s been a highlight of the ITV series.
This also adds context to the “complicated regeneration” Peter Capaldi has promised for the Christmas episode. You thought turning older was a surprise… But I digress… Here’s a look at the reveal video posted just moments ago:
Meet the Thirteenth Doctor #DoctorWho #Doctor13 pic.twitter.com/txHGz9tJEe
— Doctor Who (@bbcdoctorwho) July 16, 2017
The last time the Doctor regenerated, he (Capaldi) paid a visit to Australia, alongside Jenna Coleman. So here’s hoping BBC have similar plans in store for Whittaker, ahead of her first series next year. You’ll be able to see her debut, however, this Christmas, as Capaldi takes his bow, alongside showrunner Stephen Moffat. Chris Chibnall from Broadchurch will be taking over Moffat’s duties from next year, while Rachel Talalay will be directing the Christmas episode.
Doctor Who airs first in Australia on ABC and ABC iView.
Photo Credit: ITV (Broadchurch)
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