HOLLYWOOD’S Whoopi Goldberg is on the front foot in her quest to replace Jodie Whittaker and become the first ever American Doctor Who.
The legendary Ghost actress, real name Caryn Elaine Johnson, has already swiftly tapped up the former cast of the BBC One series as she’s great mates with ex Time Lord Tom Baker.
Speaking to SFX Magazine she let slip her desire was a long-running one, with her original intention to become the first female Doctor.
When Jodie scooped the iconic Doctor Who role it put a stop to that, yet, a new opening has arisen after Jodie revealed she’d be quitting after her third year, at the end of the current series.
Seizing her new chance, Sister Act star Whoopi, 65, revealed to the publication: “I was lucky enough to speak to Tom Baker about it – he’s the Doctor I know best.
“For me, Tom Baker was the best Doctor. Of course, the younger Doctors are good, but when it comes to the older Doctors, it was always Tom Baker for me.”
She added: “I wanted to be the first female Doctor, but they have one.
“I said to him, ‘I love the idea of an American Doctor Who’. I’m still trying to do it.”
Prior to Jodie’s arrival on the BBC One show, The View host told former Doctor David Tennant how she had gone as far as to liaise with show bosses about becoming the Doctor when the cast changed – but the role was then granted to Peter Capaldi.
Meanwhile it was Jodie who became the first female star to take on the role of the famous character back in 2017.
She will leave after the next series – maintaining the tradition of the Doctor regenerating after three stints in the TARDIS.
The Mirror report that Jodie is keen to take on new roles, with producers preparing for the next regeneration.
An insider told the publication: “It’s all very hush-hush but it is known on set that Jodie is leaving and they are gearing up for a regeneration.
“Her departure is top secret but at some point over the coming months the arrival of the 14th Doctor will need to be filmed. It’s very exciting.”
