Ncuti Gatwa, the first black actor to permanently play The Doctor in Doctor Who, has defiantly responded to racist trolls who criticized his casting. He urged them to ‘get a hobby’ and expressed that it is fascinating how much energy they put into their hate. Ncuti discussed the shift happening in casting in the TV industry and touched on the rise of attacks on vulnerable communities due to the current political climate. He emphasized the importance of fighting for compassion and understanding in the world.
In a recent interview, Ncuti shared his experiences with therapy and struggles with internalized homophobia. He admitted to avoiding addressing his emotions for most of his twenties and felt the need to earn love through exceptional achievements. Ncuti also highlighted the pressure for Black individuals to achieve excellence in order to receive recognition. However, he has been working on learning to love himself unconditionally and has found a sense of self-acceptance in the process.
Ncuti’s first full series as The Doctor is set to premiere on May 11, where he will be joined by his new companion, Ruby Sunday, played by Millie Gibson. The Doctor’s journey through time and space will take him to various lands and eras, including the Regency era in England, outer space worlds, and the sixties. The upcoming season will also feature a talented cast of guest stars, adding to the excitement of the adventures that lie ahead for the iconic character.
The new series of Doctor Who promises to deliver monsters, chases, villains, mysteries, and a terrifying secret that spans time and space. Showrunner Russell T Davies expressed his delight in unveiling the Doctor and Ruby’s adventures together, enticing fans with the promise of an action-packed and thrilling season. The series will be released globally for the first time, starting with a midnight release on BBC iPlayer on May 11, followed by an international release on Disney+ and airing on BBC One later that day.
Ncuti’s portrayal of The Doctor embodies kindness, compassion, and the understanding that we need each other to navigate the challenges of the world. The show’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in its casting choices reflects a positive shift in the TV industry and serves as a symbolic representation of progress. As audiences eagerly anticipate the adventures that await The Doctor and Ruby, the message of love, acceptance, and unity resonates through the character’s actions and interactions with others.
In the face of adversity and criticism, Ncuti Gatwa remains resilient and unapologetically himself. His message to racist trolls to ‘get a hobby’ echoes a sentiment of perseverance, courage, and resilience in the face of hate. Through his journey of self-discovery, embracing his identity, and learning to love himself unconditionally, Ncuti serves as an inspiration to others who may be facing similar challenges. As he embarks on his role as The Doctor, he brings a fresh perspective, a blend of compassion and courage, and a sense of hope for a more inclusive and empathetic world.
