British actress Pearl Mackie has been revealed as the latest companion to enter the TARDIS in an exclusive clip released by the BBC overnight. Set to join Peter Capaldi in the 2017 of Doctor Who, the Brixton native’s character is named ‘Bill’ and looks to be a fresh and inquisitive companion to Capaldi’s Time Lord.
Mackie, a relative newcomer to TV screens, has recently been seen on stage starring in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time and sparked the interest of keen-eyed Who fans after Capaldi appeared backstage for a cast photo.
While there’s already divided conversation among the fans online about the casting of an ‘unknown’, looking at what the show has done for the careers of Matt Smith, Karen Gillan and Jenna Coleman in particular, there’s no doubt the show’s executives know what they’re doing.
Doctor Who marks the actress’ first major TV role and she’s commented on her excitement at joining the franchise,
“It’s such an extraordinary British institution, I couldn’t be prouder to call the TARDIS my home! Peter Capaldi is such a brilliant actor, and his Doctor is such a wacky and wonderful character, I can’t wait to see what adventures are in store for him and Bill throughout time and space.”
“Reading the script at the audition I thought Bill was wicked. Fantastically written, cool, strong, sharp, a little bit vulnerable with a bit of geekiness thrown in – I can’t wait to bring her to life, and to see how she develops through the series.”
Capaldi himself has spoken highly of his new co-star, who will fill some big shows in the wake of Jenna Coleman‘s departure,
“It is a genuine delight to welcome Pearl Mackie to Doctor Who. A fine, fine actress with a wonderful zest and charm, she’s a refreshing addition to the TARDIS and will bring a universe of exciting new possibilities to The Doctor’s adventures.”
Watch the teaser clip introducing Mackie to the show – seems like the Daleks are after The Doctor again!
Doctor Who returns to screens in 2017.
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