Well, Whovians. We thought this day might be coming. It’s time to swing open the TARDIS doors once more and see Who’s inside.
First, Steven Moffat announced a year ago he was leaving the BBC juggernaut Doctor Who. It was rumoured at the time that Peter Capaldi would also be leaving behind the iconic role, as the showrunner handed the reins over to Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall.
The BBC reportedly spent a lot of effort trying to convince Capaldi that he had another series in him. After all, breaking in a new Doctor and a new showrunner at the same time — well, it’s worked in the past (Moffat and the 11th Doctor, Matt Smith, arrived at the same time), but who wouldn’t be worried? What’s that phrase about lightning not striking twice?
BREAKING NEWS!
“It (the new series of Doctor Who) will be my last… I feel it’s time to move on.”
– Peter Capaldi
#DoctorWho pic.twitter.com/4gx9rTShPZ— Doctor Who Official (@bbcdoctorwho) January 30, 2017
Capaldi has helmed the TARDIS since 2014, when he took over for Matt Smith. He has confirmed that he will depart during the Christmas 2017 Special at the end of the year. Don’t count him out yet, though! Capaldi assures us that we still have some great where-and-when adventures with him coming this year.
Peter confirms he’ll be stepping down in Xmas 2017, but
“I’m still #DoctorWho! We’re doing epic stuff! I’m not done yet!”
– Peter Capaldi pic.twitter.com/OYqTN7qIws— Doctor Who Official (@bbcdoctorwho) January 30, 2017
In the process of announcing his departure, however, Capaldi also confirmed when Series 10 will be starting: 15 April. That’s only two and a half months away!
So I guess all that’s left is to enjoy the time we have left with Capaldi in the TARDIS — and fantasy cast our new Doctor, lucky #13! Who do you want to see traveling through space and time?