Orla Brady to star in Matt Smith’s final ‘Doctor Who’ episode

Irish actress Orla Brady is to star in the Doctor Who Christmas Special as ‘a character from the Doctor’s past.’

The episode – which will also be the final outing for 12th (or should that be the 13th?) Doctor, Matt Smith – will revolve around Orla’s as yet unnamed character.

Orla’s previous credits include: Sinbad, Mistresses, Eternal Law and US sci-fi drama Fringe.

Classic nemesis The Cybermen will be returning as well as the Doctor’s companion Clara played by Jenna Coleman. Talking about the script of Matt’s final episode, Coleman told the observer:

“I was an absolute mess, an absolute wreck. But it’s good: it’s sad, but it’s what needs to happen. It’s perfect.”

Following the regeneration, Peter Capaldi will take on the role permanently in the 2014 series.

The Doctor Who Christmas Special airs on December 25 on BBC One.