If you look back at the 'New Who' era of Doctor Who, you'll notice that no Doctor has lasted more than three full seasons. Whether it's David Tennant, Matt Smith, Peter Capaldi, or Jodie Whittaker, none stayed with the role more than three complete seasons. Although in the case of David Tennant and Matt Smith, they did both return for a few special appearances.
The latest Doctor, played by 32-year-old Ncuti Gatwa, will return to the TARDIS for his second stint next month. Initially, Gatwa had signed on to a multi-series deal as the Fifthteenth Doctor, but it seems his tenure may be coming to an end sooner rather than later. There's no official word on when Gatwa will step away from the series, but several reports, including this one from The Sun, suggest that the Whoniverse is on its last legs.
That being set, a spokesperson has told GB News news that plans remain unchanged. "Doctor Who has not been shelved," they said. "As we have previously stated, the decision on season three will be made after season two airs. The deal with Disney+ was for 26 episodes - and exactly half of those still have to transmit. And as for the rest, we never comment on the Doctor and future storylines."
Ncuti Gatwa weighs in on his experience playing the Fifteenth Doctor
In an interview for a special edition of Radio Times, Gatwa explained why he loves the Doctor so much. “It’s really special to have a character like the Doctor on our screens," he said. "He tries to leave everyone happier than when he first meets them and that’s a beautiful trait. He inspires and represents a sense of curiosity, courage and compassion in all of us."
He also spoke about his first-ever Comic-Con appearance. “Now, I’ve just done my first Comic-Con and as much as it was intense, it was a really nice way to finally get close and personal with the fans."
It's worth remembering that Doctor Who is being made with Disney cash nowadays, meaning a bigger budget, but more pressure for success. With the series airing on Disney+, it's able to reach a much larger audience. Season 2 premieres April 12, 2025. There's also a spinoff, The War Between the Land and the Sea, coming either later this year or early 2026. That's a lot of Whoniverse content! If the franchise is in trouble, Gatwa and company aren't letting on, but are instead soldier ahead.
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