Doctor Who has announced that the 29-year-old, star Ncuti Gatwa will become the 14th Doctor on the popular science fiction show. Gatwa is the first person of colour to play the lead role and the successor of Jodie Whittaker.
The BBC has confirmed that Scottish actor Gatwa, who is best known for his role as Eric Effiong in Netflix’s sitcom Sex Education, will take charge of the TARDIS after Whittaker departs the sci-fi drama later this year.
Star Ncuti Gatwa Reaction to the role of Doctor Who
He told BBC News, “It feels really amazing. It’s a true honour. This role is an institution and it’s so iconic.”
“There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling,” Gatwa told about starring in Doctor Who. “A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared.”
While speaking on the red carpet just before Sunday’s Bafta TV Awards, he said about the role of the Doctor, “This role and show mean 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 utmost 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.” Gatwa told BBC.
“The entire team have been so welcoming and truly given 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.”
Star Ncuti Gatwa: “Talent and energy“
Incoming showrunner Russell T Davies, 13 years after previously leading the show, has shared his praise saying, “The future is here and it’s Ncuti! 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,” he added. “But I promise you, 2023 will be spectacular!”
Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore said, “Ncuti has an incredible dynamism, he’s a striking and fearless young actor whose talent and energy will set the world alight .”
With Gatwa joining the team, fans are looking forward to it!
