The twelfth Doctor is saying goodbye to the Tardis

Sad news for Who fans as Peter Capaldi has confirmed the 2017 Christmas episode of Doctor Who will be his last.

Capaldi, who has played the twelfth Doctor since 2013, revealed the surprise news during an interview on Jo Whiley‘s BBC Radio 2 show this evening (30th Jan), commenting, “it’s time to move on.”

Doctor Who writer and actor Mark Gatiss also tweeted” Profoundly sad that the wonderful Peter Capaldi is leaving at the end of the year. But he is – and always will be – a great Doctor Who.”

However, with Series 10 yet to air in April and the aforementioned Christmas Special, Peter reassured fans by adding “I’m still #DoctorWho! We’re doing epic stuff! I’m not done yet!”

Listen to the interview here.

In a BBC statement, Peter said: “One of the greatest privileges of being Doctor Who is to see the world at its best. From our brilliant crew and creative team working for the best broadcaster on the planet, to the viewers and fans whose endless creativity, generosity and inclusiveness points to a brighter future ahead. I can’t thank everyone enough. It’s been cosmic.”

Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content, says: “Peter Capaldi will always be a very special Doctor to me; his adventures through time and space started just as I arrived on BBC One. He has been a tremendous Doctor who has brought his own unique wisdom and charisma to the role. But, it’s not over yet – I know the next series is going to be spectacular. He’s a fine actor who I hope we work with again when he leaves the TARDIS”.

Brian Minchin, Executive Producer says: “Peter Capaldi is an extraordinary Doctor and has taken the show to amazing places. Although I’m sad he has decided to move on in 2018 I’m delighted that we have one final series with Peter Capaldi and Steven Moffat. I know what they’re planning and it’s going to be incredible.”