DOCTOR Who’s Jodie Whittaker will NOT return to the show next year – and neither will showrunner Chris Chibnall.
The announcement comes after months of rumours that the acclaimed actress would be making her departure from the beloved sci-fi programme.
Jodie, 39 – who has made history by playing the first ever female Time Lord – will give up the role in 2022, alongside telly writer Chris.
After the highly-anticipated series airs later this year, Jodie’s portrayal of the character will come to an end with a six-part event serial, and two specials next year.
Speaking about her departure, Jodie said: “In 2017 I opened my glorious gift box of size 13 shoes.
“I could not have guessed the brilliant adventures, worlds and wonders I was to see in them.
“My heart is so full of love for this show, for the team who make it, for the fans who watch it and for what it has brought to my life.
“And I cannot thank Chris enough for entrusting me with his incredible stories. We knew that we wanted to ride this wave side by side, and pass on the baton together.
“So here we are, weeks away from wrapping on the best job I have ever had. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to express what this role has given me. I will carry the Doctor and the lessons I’ve learnt forever.
“I know change can be scary and none of us know what’s out there. That’s why we keep looking. Travel Hopefully. The Universe will surprise you. Constantly.”
The star joined the cast of Doctor Who back in 2017 after being cast by Chibnall, taking over from Peter Capaldi, who played the Doctor from 2013 to 2017.
Chibnall, who has worked on the likes of Broadchurch, Resolution and Gracepoint, had nothing but great words to say about his colleague.
He added: “Jodie and I made a ‘three series and out’ pact with each other at the start of this once-in-a-lifetime blast. So now our shift is done, and we’re handing back the TARDIS keys.
“Jodie’s magnificent, iconic Doctor has exceeded all our high expectations.
“She’s been the gold standard leading actor, shouldering the responsibility of being the first female Doctor with style, strength, warmth, generosity and humour. She captured the public imagination and continues to inspire adoration around the world, as well as from everyone on the production.
I can’t imagine working with a more inspiring Doctor – so I’m not going to!
“For me, leading this exceptional team has been unrivalled creative fun, and one of the great joys of my career.
“I’m so proud of the people we’ve worked with and the stories we’ve told. To finish our time on the show with an additional Special, after the pandemic changed and challenged our production plans, is a lovely bonus.
“It’s great that the climax of the Thirteenth Doctor’s story will be at the heart(s) of the BBC’s centenary celebrations.
“I wish our successors – whoever the BBC and BBC Studios choose – as much fun as we’ve had. They’re in for a treat!”
It remains unclear who will replace Jodie, but the likes of Olly Alexander, Michaela Coel, Richard Ayoade and Helena Bonham Carter have all been tipped as prospective Time Lords
Did you miss our previous article...
https://thecelebreport.com/television/love-island-set-for-massive-bloodbath-tonight-in-casa-amor-recoupling
