The BBC has announced actor Ncuti Gatwa is the next star of Doctor Who.
He will succeed Jodie Whittaker in the role of The Doctor, under returning showrunner Russell T. Davies in 2023. He becomes the first black actor to play the role on a full-time basis.
The Rwandan-Scottish actor is best known for his role as Eric Effiong on Sex Education for which he was awarded Best Actor Award at the Scottish BAFTA’s in 2020.
Ncuti said: “There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared. This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care.
“I will endeavour my upmost to do the same. Russell T. Davies is almost as iconic as the Doctor himself and being able to work with him is a dream come true. His writing is dynamic, exciting, incredibly intelligent and fizzing with danger. An actor’s metaphorical playground. The entire team have been so welcoming and truly give their hearts to the show. And so as much as it’s daunting, I’m aware I’m joining a really supportive family.
“Unlike the Doctor, I may only have one heart but I am giving it all to this show.”
Russell T. Davies, Showrunner said, “The future is here and it’s Ncuti! Sometimes talent walks through the door and it’s so bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand back in awe and thank my lucky stars. Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds. It’s an honour to work with him, and a hoot, I can’t wait to get started. I’m sure you’re dying to know more, but we’re rationing ourselves for now, with the wonderful Jodie’s epic finale yet to come. But I promise you, 2023 will be spectacular!”
Charlotte Moore, BBC Chief Content Officer said: “Ncuti has an incredible dynamism, he’s a striking and fearless young actor whose talent and energy will set the world alight and take Doctor Who on extraordinary adventures under Russell T. Davies’ new era.”
Gatwa also features in Barbie starring Margot Robbie to be released in 2023.