The Next Doctor Who Has Been Announced And She's A Woman

'I want to tell the fans not to be scared by my gender because this is a really exciting time'

Following the announcement of Peter Capaldi's departure, making his exit in the 2017 Christmas special, people have been wondering who will be next to step into the Doctor's iconic shoes.

The most recent seasons have seen the Time Lord regenerate as Christopher Eccleston, David Tennant and Peter Capaldi, and just yesterday the Thirteenth Doctor was announced as Jodie Whittaker, the first ever female Doctor Who.

BBC released a teaser video of the 35-year-old actress outside the famous TARDIS to break the news, something that prompted mixed reviews, with some people taking against the change.

Doctor Who boss Chris Chibnall worked with Jodie on Broadchurch and has explained how she was his top choice for the iconic role.

'After months of lists, conversations, auditions, recalls, and a lot of secret-keeping, we’re excited to welcome Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor,' he explained. 'I always knew I wanted the Thirteenth Doctor to be a woman and we're thrilled to have secured our number one choice.'

He continued: '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.'

Jodie also commented on the reception, asking Doctor Who fans to look past her gender and embrace change.

'I want to tell the fans not to be scared by my gender because this is a really exciting time, and Doctor Who represents everything that’s exciting about change,' she explained. 'The fans have lived through so many changes, and this is only a new, different one, not a fearful one.'

She continued: '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.'

Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. After working at Marie Claire UK for seven years - rising from intern to Features Editor - she is now a freelance contributor to the News and Features section.

In 2021, Jenny was named as a winner on the PPA's '30 under 30' list, and was also listed as a rising star in journalism.