Release Dates Revealed for 'Doctor Who' Anniversary Specials

The Big Picture

David Tennant returns as the Doctor in upcoming Doctor Who anniversary specials, alongside Catherine Tate as Donna Noble.

The upcoming season will consist of three episodes focusing on the consequences of Jodie Whittaker's Doctor transforming into Tennant's incarnation. Ncuti Gatwa is scheduled to make his first appearance as the Doctor in the following year's season, accompanied by Millie Gibson as his new companion named Ruby Sunday.

David Tennant is set to return to the TARDIS in the upcoming Doctor Who anniversary specials. Disney+ and the BBC have announced that the specials will be released on November 25, December 2, and December 9. These episodes will provide a glimpse into the new era of the show before a full season premieres next year. While Disney+ is the official global distributor for Doctor Who, the specials will not be available in the UK and Ireland. The episodes, titled "The Star Beast," "Wild Blue Yonder," and "The Giggle," will explore the aftermath of Jodie Whittaker's Doctor transforming into David Tennant's version. Alongside Tennant, Catherine Tate will reprise her role as Donna Noble, the Doctor's loyal companion.

Ever since Russell T. Davies took the helm of the modern Doctor Who series, there has always been an aura of secrecy surrounding the plots of upcoming episodes. And this year's holiday specials are no different. The only nugget of information we have is that Tennant and Tate will be reprising their roles, and there's speculation that Ncuti Gatwa might make his debut as the Doctor. As the longest-running science fiction show in history, Doctor Who is on the cusp of a new era, and it all hinges on the new pilot of the TARDIS.

Image via Empire

David Tennant Turns Into Ncuti Gatwa

With the return of David Tennant as the Doctor, it was clear to audiences that his tenure would be short-lived, as Ncuti Gatwa is set to take on the lead role in the upcoming season. Joining him is Millie Gibson, who will portray Ruby Sunday, the Doctor's official companion. Together, they will navigate time and space in the TARDIS, lending a helping hand to those in need. In a vast and uncertain galaxy, this Time Lord continues to uncover new aspects of humanity after centuries of thrilling adventures.

Below, you can find the official announcement for the release of the upcoming Doctor Who specials. The show will premiere on Disney+ worldwide, with the exception of the United Kingdom and Ireland, on November 25.