Doctor Who star teases return to BBC show after 9 years

A Doctor Who star has hinted at their return. <i>(Image: BBC Studios/Bad Wolf/Lara Cornell)</i>
A Doctor Who star has hinted at their return. (Image: BBC Studios/Bad Wolf/Lara Cornell)
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A former star of the hit BBC sci-fi show Doctor Who has hinted that they would like to return.

Nine years ago, Jodie Whittaker became the first woman in the show's history to play Doctor Who.

Whittaker took over the role from Peter Capaldi but left the show in 2022, when David Tennant returned for a short appearance, until Ncuti Gatwa officially became the 15th Doctor.

But Whittaker made a surprise appearance in the series 15 finale last year, starring opposite Gatwa.

However, the actor has now hinted that she may return to the BBC show.

Jodie Whittaker hints at Doctor Who return

Speaking to Digital Spy at the Into Film Awards, the actor said that she would be more than happy to return to Doctor Who.

Sharing, "I have never ever had to hide my absolute love for Doctor Who and I have said in every single interview that was ever asked, I would always say yes [to returning] and everyone knows that is what I will feel, I will love Doctor Who until the day I die."

Adding, "I think everything to do with Doctor Who is a surprise, who the next doctor is, who the companions are, there's always a surprise coming."

BBC cancels Doctor Who's 2026 Christmas special

Doctor Who last aired in 2025, marking the end of Gatwa's time in the titular role.

The BBC recently announced that the show would be taking a break with no 2026 Christmas episode.

Confirming the news, the broadcasters said, "As part of securing the next phase of the show for future generations, and in line with the BBC’s Charter and Agreement requirements, the BBC will put Doctor Who out to competitive tender this year.

"Doctor Who remains an important part of the BBC and this tender underpins the BBC’s continued commitment to Doctor Who ensuring audiences will enjoy the show for years to come.


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"After careful consideration, the BBC, Russell T Davies and Bad Wolf have collectively decided not to go ahead with the previously announced Doctor Who Christmas episode.

"This decision was not taken lightly, and we know it will be disappointing for fans, but in order to set the show up for future series, it was decided that rather than bridge the gap with a one off special, we are choosing to push forward to invest in the long-term future of the show which ensures that when the TARDIS lands once more, it does so in all its glory."

Would you like to see Jodie Whittaker return to Doctor Who? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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