New Doctor makes Whovian history!
Broadchurch actress Jodie Whittaker has been announced as the 13th Doctor in BBC One’s hit Doctor Who.
35 year-old Whittaker becomes the first female to have ever played the Doctor, taking over the role from Peter Capaldi who bows out in the Christmas Special.
Jodie was first revealed in a trailer (below) following the Men’s Wimbledon final (16 July) and will make her first appearance when the Doctor regenerates in the Christmas Special.
It’s no surprise a Broadchurch actress had been announced as Broadchurch creator and writer Chris Chibnall takes over the reigns as showrunner from Steven Moffat.
Jodie Whittaker says: “I’m beyond excited to begin this epic journey with Chris and with every Whovian on this planet. It’s more than an honour to play the Doctor. It means remembering everyone I used to be, while stepping forward to embrace everything the Doctor stands for: hope. I can’t wait.”
Chris Chibnall, New Head Writer and Executive Producer, says : “After months of lists, conversations, auditions, recalls, and a lot of secret-keeping, we’re excited to welcome Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor.
“I always knew I wanted the Thirteenth Doctor to be a woman and we’re thrilled to have secured our number one choice. Her audition for The Doctor simply blew us all away. Jodie is an in-demand, funny, inspiring, super-smart force of nature and will bring loads of wit, strength and warmth to the role. The Thirteenth Doctor is on her way.”
Peter Capaldi says: “Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker’s work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm. She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She’s going to be a fantastic Doctor.”
Piers Wenger, Controller BBC Drama, says : “Jodie is not just a talented actor but she has a bold and brilliant vision for her Doctor. She aced it in her audition both technically and with the powerful female life force she brings to the role. She is destined to be an utterly iconic Doctor.”
