Ncuti Gatwa, known for his roles in Netflix’s Sex Education and BBC One’s Doctor Who, revealed in an interview with co-star Millie Gibson that he only learned to pronounce his own name correctly at the age of 26. Despite correcting others on the pronunciation of his name as “N-shoo-tee,” he was shocked when his mother informed him that he had been saying it wrong his entire life. The actor shared this revelation during a conversation with Gibson on Instagram, highlighting a humorous moment with his mother’s correction.
Gatwa’s career skyrocketed after his breakout role as Eric Effiong in Sex Education, and he made history as the first black actor to portray the Doctor in Doctor Who. As the new face of the iconic role, he acknowledged the pressure and anxiety that came with the job. Gatwa discussed his struggles with anxiety and the challenges of taking on such a prestigious and complex character. Despite the difficulties, he expressed his love for the show and his dedication to doing his best in the role.
The Scottish-Rwandan actor made his debut in Doctor Who alongside Gibson, also known for her role in Coronation Street, and the two formed a dynamic on-screen duo. Their full series aired in May 2024, and Gatwa reflected on the significance of his casting as the Doctor. He emphasized that his role symbolizes diversity and inclusivity in British television, underscoring the importance of representation in a long-standing show like Doctor Who. Gatwa’s portrayal of the Doctor marks a significant step towards greater cultural diversity in the entertainment industry.
Gatwa’s journey to success and recognition in the entertainment industry is a testament to his talent and perseverance. From learning to pronounce his own name correctly to tackling the challenges of playing an iconic character like the Doctor, Gatwa has navigated his career with passion and dedication. His openness about his struggles with anxiety highlights the human side of performers in the spotlight, offering a glimpse into the pressures they face behind the scenes. Gatwa’s achievements in both Sex Education and Doctor Who showcase his versatility as an actor and his commitment to bringing diverse stories to the screen.
As Gatwa continues to make his mark in the entertainment industry, he serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors from diverse backgrounds. His journey from struggling with his own name pronunciation to becoming a trailblazer in British television demonstrates the power of perseverance and self-discovery. Gatwa’s humor, humility, and authenticity shine through in his interactions with colleagues and fans, fostering a connection that goes beyond his on-screen roles. With his unique blend of talent and charisma, Gatwa’s star continues to rise, promising exciting new opportunities and challenges in his career ahead.
