Ncuti Gatwa Leaves “Doctor Who” In Shocking Season Finale
Today, the BBC and Disney released the season two finale of “Doctor Who”, which saw the Doctor face the Rani in an extraordinary battle to save the world, and the Doctor made the ultimate sacrifice to save the life of one little girl.
This season finale also marked another significant shift within the history of this iconic show, which has been around for over sixty years, as we see Ncuti Gatwa step down from one of the most iconic roles in British television.
Since being announced as the Doctor in May 2022, Ncuti Gatwa was launched into the Whoniverse and immediately taken into the hearts of Doctor Who fans across the globe. With his first appearance being part of the show’s 60th anniversary celebrations in November 2023, Gatwa’s arrival into the show was a never-before-seen bi-generation, which saw him split from the Fourteenth Doctor, played by David Tennant.
His portrayal of the Doctor won Gatwa a Best Actor award at the BAFTA Cymru Awards in 2024, as well as nominations for a BAFTA Scotland Audience Award for Favourite Scot on Screen, and Best Actor in a Drama Series at The Critics Choice Television Awards in the US in 2025.
There have been many questions about the future of “Doctor Who” on Disney+ around the world, as the original agreement was for two seasons and some bonus specials. That deal has now come to an end following the season finale. However, the two companies have also teamed up for a new spin-off series called “The War Between The Land And The Sea“, which will also be released on the BBC in the UK and on Disney+ around the world.
It’s unlikely we are going to hear any official confirmation about the future of “Doctor Who” on Disney+ until after the spin-off series is released, but many believe Disney will pull out of its current licensing deal. Leaving the BBC to continue with the show, which might result in a budget drop, but if the season finale is anything to go by, the show is likely to continue, albeit with a new face, well, kind of. It’s a little complicated. As Billie Piper has returned to the show, becoming the new “Doctor”. Billie previously starred as the Doctor’s companion, Rose, in the relaunch of the show twenty years ago.
That’s because when The Doctor sacrificed himself to save his daughter, he regenerated, which is one of the unique ways the show has survived for over sixty years, as the leading actor can be replaced once they’ve decided they no longer want to continue.
Ncuti Gatwa said in a statement regarding his departure from the series:
“You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it. This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever. There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe.
The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show and I can’t thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in, and making this such a touching experience. I’ve loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have. I’ll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.”
Speaking of Ncuti’s departure, Russell T Davies, Showrunner, added:
“What a Doctor! Thank you, Ncuti! As his final words say, this has been an absolute joy, and the team in Cardiff and everyone who has worked on this show for the past few years, are so lucky to have been part of Ncuti’s great adventure as he shoots off to stratospheric new heights.”
Lindsay Salt, Director of Drama, also added:
“When Ncuti Gatwa first stepped foot on the TARDIS we instantly knew he was going to be an iconic Doctor and it wasn’t long before his dazzling performances captured the hearts of so many around the globe. The role of the Doctor is like no other and Ncuti’s dedication, charisma and magnetism has taken the Doctor into unchartered territory which we have never experienced before. As Ncuti himself said at the start of this journey – unlike the Doctor he may only have one heart, but he is giving it all to this role – I think we can all agree that he did that, and more. Thanks, Ncuti for being such a special part of the Whoniverse.”
With the return of Billie Piper to the show, this has led to many questions already from fans, with the official press release stating, “how and why she is back remains to be seen…”.
Roger’s Take: It’s a shame to see Ncuti leave the role of the Doctor, as personally, I’ve really enjoyed his version of the character, and it felt like he was finally getting into the groove, as the second season was far better than the first. I’m not that thrilled about the return of Billie Piper, as I think there’s too much focus on the history, and now I’m sure we’re going to see some adventure involving Billie and David Tennant for some Christmas specials or for one series, before they reset the show again.
I also have very little doubt that Disney is probably not going to renew its licensing deal for “Doctor Who”, unless it gets a serious reduction in budget. The show is still popular in the UK, and the BBC will no doubt continue to make it, be it with Disney, with another partner, or on their own. “Doctor Who” will continue; it’s been around for over sixty years and is a beloved British show.
What do you think of Ncuti Gatwa leaving “Doctor Who”? Let me know on social media!
Roger Palmer
Related Article
BBC Developing New “Doctor Who” Preschool Animated Series
“Doctor Who” Spin-off “The War Between The Land And The Sea” Trailer Released
