The BBC has dropped a bombshell announcement about Doctor Who, mere weeks after Ncuti Gatwa’s exit from the legendary lead role in the science fiction series. Following David Tennant’s second tenure as the Time Lord, the Scottish actor took up the sonic screwdriver for two seasons, starting in December 2023.

In an unexpected twist, the Doctor underwent regeneration in the final moments of his second season’s finale, which was broadcast on TV May 31.

Shortly after the end of The Reality War, where the Doctor once again saved the world, Ncuti bid farewell to his companion Belinda Chandra, portrayed by Varada Sethu.

“I hope you’ll see me again, but not like this,” he uttered just before his transformation.

However, the episode ended with a significant surprise, seemingly confirming Billie Piper as the 16th Doctor, reports Manchester Evening News.

The actress is no newcomer to the series, having previously played Rose Tyler, Christopher Eccleston’s companion in the 2005 reboot of Doctor Who.

Last appearing in the show’s 50th-anniversary episode, The Day of the Doctor, back in 2013, it remains unconfirmed whether Billie will be reprising her role as the Doctor or Rose.

“It’s no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that Tardis one more time was just something I couldn’t refuse, but who, how, why and when, you’ll just have to wait and see,” she hinted.

Fans eagerly awaiting the next season of Doctor Who may be in for a longer wait, as Billie is not listed as the Doctor in the show’s credits and there’s no confirmed release date for the upcoming series.

Yet, there’s exciting news for younger fans: on Thursday (June 12), it was revealed that CBeebies will host a new pre-school animation series based on the Doctor’s adventures. The BBC is on the hunt for a dedicated production company to bring this project to life.

Set to air on CBeebies, marking its debut on the channel, the animated series will operate separately from the main programme, featuring the Doctor embarking on time-travelling escapades tailored for a pre-school audience.

Patricia Hidalgo, Director of Children’s and Education, expressed her enthusiasm: “Everyone is welcome at CBeebies, including the Doctor!”

She added: “This much-loved franchise entertains millions around the world, so it is only right that our younger audience get to experience the wonder and the magic of the Doctor in a brand new format.”

Hidalgo also highlighted the significance of the venture: “This is an extremely exciting opportunity, and we are looking forward to welcoming companies to pitch for this new project, as we continue our commitment and investment in the UK’s animation industry.”