Class – New Doctor Who Spin-Off Announced

The Doctor Who universe will expand again next fall with the production of a new spin-off, Class, under the leadership and writing of acclaimed young adult author Patrick Ness, airing on BBC3.

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Class promises to feature a world in which young adults grow up surrounded by the sort of monsters and aliens we see regularly featured in Doctor Who, exploring a question that we here at Doctor Who Watch have asked.

Patrick Ness’ writing credits include six young adult fiction works and two Carnegie medals. He authored the Doctor Who short story “Tip of the Tongue,” an adventure of the fifth doctor written as part of the 50th anniversary celebration. Ness, along with Steven Moffat and Brian Minchin, will be executive producers of Class.

Related: 8 More Doctor Who Characters Who Need Big Finish Spin-Offs

Moffat promises a show that goes beyond monsters to the psyche and experience of young adults:

"“No one has documented the dark and exhilarating world of the teenager like Patrick Ness, and now we’re bringing his brilliant story-telling into Doctor Who. This is growing up in modern Britain – but with monsters!”"

I, for one, am hopeful for the possibilities of this new show. Patrick Ness is passionate about the Doctor Who universe, if his announcement tweet is any indication:

Class will give the opportunity for the Doctor Who universe to return to Coal Hill School and provide easy opportunity for the occasional visit from the Doctor or former companions without taking away from its standing as its own show.

Related: Kate Stewart & Osgood to Star in Big Finish’s New UNIT Spin-Off Series

As one who has not always been a huge fan of children on Doctor Who, I hope that Class lives up to its billing. The opportunity to explore the themes of young adult fiction by a writer who specializes in the field is a tremendous opportunity for Doctor Who to return to its roots while offering fans an expansion to the Whoniverse. I, for one, can’t wait.

What do you think? Are you excited to see another new Doctor Who spin-off hit the airwaves? Sound off in the comments below!

(Via BBC Doctor Who Blog)

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