Ncuti Gatwa is the newest star of Doctor Who, taking over the role from previous star Jodie Whittaker. Russell T. Davies, who led the 2005 relaunch of the series, returned as showrunner for the 60th anniversary specials and the new season, which he considers a relaunch of the series. Gatwa’s casting was announced in May 2022, with Davies praising his performance and enthusiasm for the role. The upcoming season of Doctor Who, technically the 14th season but labeled season 1, is set to air on Disney+ on May 10, with Gatwa’s first appearance in the holiday special “The Church on Ruby Road.”
Gatwa expressed his excitement and honor at taking on the iconic role of the Doctor, acknowledging the responsibility and privilege that comes with it. He is joined by Millie Gibson as his companion, Ruby Sunday, with both actors expressing their enthusiasm for working together. Jonathan Groff and Jinkx Monsoon have also joined the cast in key roles, with Groff teasing his character’s involvement in regency-era settings and Monsoon expressing her excitement at being a part of the show. In addition to new characters, former companion Bonnie Langford has returned to the series, while Indira Varma joins as The Duchess.
The season 1 cast also includes Lenny Rush as Morris, Aneurin Barnard as Roger ap Gwilliam, and returning characters like Donna’s daughter Rose. Anita Dobson, Michelle Greenidge, Gwïon Morris Jones, and Genesis Lynea have also been confirmed to appear in the upcoming season. Nicola Coughlan, known for her role in Bridgerton, will make a special appearance in the 2024 Christmas special, reuniting with Gatwa. Coughlan expressed her excitement at joining the Doctor Who universe and working with Gatwa, while Gatwa jokingly referred to them as “Barbie and Ken.”
Overall, the upcoming season of Doctor Who is shaping up to be a star-studded affair with a mix of new and returning cast members. Fans can expect plenty of excitement, adventure, and drama as Gatwa takes on the role of the Doctor and embarks on new adventures with his companions. With the return of Russell T. Davies as showrunner and the introduction of new characters played by talented actors like Jonathan Groff and Jinkx Monsoon, the series is set to continue its legacy as one of the most beloved sci-fi shows on television. Get ready to travel through time and space once again as Doctor Who returns with a fresh new season, featuring familiar faces and exciting new additions to the cast.
