Ncuti Gatwa Takes the Reins: A Comprehensive Guide to 'Doctor Who' Season 14
Ncuti Gatwa takes the reins as the 15th Doctor in ‘Doctor Who’ Season 14, succeeding Jodie Whittaker and David Tennant Excitement builds as we delve into new adventures, meet a new companion, witness the return of a beloved character, and explore the thrilling cast lineup Get ready for an epic journey through time and space!
Ncuti Gatwa, the popular actor from Sex Education, will be joining Doctor Who as the latest star. Fans are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to meet his portrayal of the Doctor. He was chosen for the role in 2022, before Jodie Whittaker's final episode. Russell T. Davies, who successfully relaunched the series in 2005 and left alongside David Tennant in 2010, will return as the showrunner for the 60th anniversary specials as well as season 14.
"Ncuti impressed us by taking control of the Doctor and effortlessly handling the TARDIS keys," Davies stated in May 2022 upon Gatwa's casting announcement. "Working with him is a privilege and a delight; I'm eagerly looking forward to getting started."
When Will ‘Doctor Who’ Season 14 Air?
Following the broadcast of the three 60th anniversary specials on BBC and Disney+ (read more about those here), Gatwa’s episodes are scheduled to commence during the “festive period.” Disney+ has officially announced that the Doctor Who holiday special, entitled “The Church on Ruby Road,” will be aired on December 25. Since 2017, this marks the first time a winter special will premiere on Christmas Day, while the previous four specials were aired on New Year’s Day.
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How Does Ncuti Gatwa Feel About Being the New Doctor?
Who Is the 15th Doctor’s New Companion?
He expressed his emotions, stating that words alone cannot capture the depth of his feelings. He described his mix of profound honor, overwhelming excitement, and a hint of fear. Recognizing the significance of the role and the show worldwide, he acknowledged the responsibility and privilege that his exceptionally talented predecessors have handled with great care. He committed himself to follow their lead and strive to uphold the same level of dedication.
Millie Gibson was announced as Gatwa's sidekick, Ruby Sunday, for the new season of BBC's Doctor Who on Disney+ in November 2022. In a statement, Gibson expressed her disbelief and gratitude, stating that being cast as the Doctor's companion is a dream come true. She is determined to do justice to the role and follow in the footsteps of the previous companions, particularly alongside the talented Ncuti Gatwa. She eagerly anticipates the start of filming.
Gatwa is equally enthusiastic. "I am so excited to explore the universe and face off against creatures with this individual," wrote the Barbie actor in an Instagram announcement. "Believe me, we have a lot in store for you."
Courtesy of Doctor Who/Twitter
Courtesy of Doctor Who/Twitter
In December 2022, the unveiling of Gatwa and Gibson's character costumes took place, courtesy of Disney+ and BBC. The new sensation embraced a vibrant orange shirt along with a dark orange plaid jacket and trousers, accentuated by silver rings and Gallifreyan-inspired nail art. On the other hand, Gibson opted for a denim jacket paired with blue shorts and tights underneath.
BBC/Disney+
What Does Ncuti Gatwa Look Like as The Doctor?
The actor from Spring Awakening was officially announced for a significant role in May 2023. Recently released photos depict him dressed in regency-era clothing, alongside the Doctor and Millie. Groff expressed his excitement to work with Russell T. Davies and witness Ncuti Gatwa excel in this legendary role.
BBC/Disney+
Who Is Jonathan Groff Playing?
Jinkx Monsoon, the winner of RuPaul's Drag Race season 5, has secured a significant role on Doctor Who. Although specific details about the character remain undisclosed, the talented Broadway alum is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to enter the TARDIS. In an April 2023 statement, Jinkx expressed immense honor, excitement, and thrill to be a part of Doctor Who, praising Russell T. Davies as a visionary and exceptional writer. Jinkx added, "I can't wait to collaborate with him and the crew, diving deep into the intricacies of the show. I hope there's enough space in the TARDIS for my belongings!"
BBC/Disney+
In 1986, Bonnie Langford began her tenure on Doctor Who as Melanie Bush, the companion of the Sixth and Seventh Doctors, portrayed by Colin Baker and Sylvester McCoy respectively. She later made a brief appearance during Jodie Whittaker's final episode as the 13th Doctor in 2022.
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Which ‘Drag Race’ Alum Is Joining ‘Doctor Who’?
Indira Varma, known for her role in Game of Thrones, is joining Doctor Who as The Duchess. It is unclear if this mysterious royal character is connected to Varma's previous character, Suzie Costello, from the Doctor Who spinoff Torchwood. In a statement from May 2023, Varma expressed her excitement to be working with Ncuti, who plays the Doctor, and to bring some interplanetary mischief to the show. She also mentioned her joy in returning to this world after playing Suzie Costello for Russell T. Davies in Torchwood.
Which Companion Is Coming Back?
Additional members of the season 14 cast have been announced. Lenny Rush will be portraying Morris, while Aneurin Barnard has been assigned the role of the enigmatic Roger ap Gwilliam. No further information has been disclosed regarding their respective characters.
