Ncuti Gatwa, the fifteenth Doctor, is full of praise for Doctor Who. After admitting to binge-watching the entire revival series, which has aired 13 full seasons and numerous specials since 2005, Gatwa shares his admiration for the show. As the sixth actor to take on the role of the Doctor in the revival series, Gatwa will be portraying the fifteenth main incarnation of the Time Lord. As he gears up to lead Doctor Who season 14 in 2024, Gatwa discusses his reasons for being drawn to the show. In an interview with Rolling Stone UK, Gatwa reveals that the series offers a unique form of escapism for viewers and personally resonated with him. He explains that the Doctor's journey in the revival series struck a chord with his own experiences, including his escape from Rwanda during the genocide against Tutsi groups and subsequent resettlement in Scotland. To learn more about Gatwa's thoughts, read his full explanation below.
Many Former Doctor Actors Have Discussed Their Personal Experiences With Doctor Who Before Their Casting
I developed a deep affection for it. Upon viewing it, all my worries fade away. It transports you to the realms of outer space or the corridors of history, where thrilling experiences await... This individual survived a horrific genocide. They possess the ability to assimilate into any situation while simultaneously feeling like an outsider. I identify as the Doctor. The Doctor is an integral part of my identity. Consequently, I made a firm decision that securing this role was imperative.Having been on the air for almost 60 years, the show has had many actors step into the role of the Doctor. These actors, who grew up watching the show themselves, have cherished memories of the Doctor's adventures. David Tennant, who portrayed the Tenth Doctor, has shared that his love for Doctor Who as a child influenced his decision to pursue an acting career. Similarly, Peter Capaldi, known for his portrayal of the Twelfth Doctor, has described himself as a lifelong fan of the sci-fi series. Prior to becoming the Doctor, Capaldi had even appeared in the show in two other roles within the Doctor Who universe.
Unlike other actors who have played the Doctor and already had a history with the series, Matt Smith had no prior connection to Doctor Who. In a 2022 interview, Smith revealed that he had never watched the show before being cast, as he would usually be at the pub during its usual airtime. However, taking on the role prompted him to watch the earliest episodes of the sci-fi show, with Patrick Troughton's Second Doctor becoming a favorite and source of inspiration.
Gatwa's love for Doctor Who is bound to make the audience even more fond of him as the Fifteenth Doctor. His recollection captures what continues to attract viewers to the show on a regular basis. Moreover, Gatwa's personal connection to the Doctor, coupled with his hints about the Fifteenth Doctor's hidden vulnerability, heightens curiosity about his portrayal of the Time Lord on screen.
Source: Rolling Stone UK