In a groundbreaking move set to reshape one of television’s most beloved institutions, the BBC and Amazon MGM Studios have announced a major new partnership that will see Doctor Who come to an end in its current form, only to be reborn under a bold new name: Dr Who. Following the epic finale, airing this May on BBC One and iPlayer, the long-running sci-fi series will close the doors on its current incarnation. Titled "Wish World" and "The Reality War", the two-part finale promises a reality-shattering conclusion for Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor, one that will mark the definitive end of the Time Lord’s life, with no regeneration to follow.
But the end is just the beginning. The show will be relaunching with a new timeline, a fresh-faced First Doctor, companions, and a fully reimagined origin story for a modern audience, now under the simplified title Dr Who. The series will premiere exclusively on Prime Video internationally, and continue to air on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK and Ireland.
Ncuti Gatwa, the current Doctor, expressed mixed emotions about the transition. He stated, “The Doctor’s story has always been about change, and this one is massive. While I’m heartbroken to be saying goodbye, I’m also genuinely curious to see where Dr Who goes next. Whatever happens, I hope there’s still running involved!”
Russell T Davies, the departing showrunner, added to the sentiment, saying, “Surprise! Series 15 was always going to be the end of our journey. It’s a farewell. A full stop. No regeneration, no loopholes. What happens next is a new beginning, and this new version is brave, bold, and completely bonkers. I wish the new team the very best as they pick up the baton.”
Tim Davie, BBC Director-General, emphasized the significance of this transition, saying, “This marks the end of one era and the beginning of something truly different, but also the same. With Dr Who, we’re taking the opportunity to speak to a new generation, while still honouring the depth of storytelling and imagination that have defined this show for decades.”
Vernon Sanders, Head of Television at Amazon MGM Studios, expressed excitement about the collaboration, commenting, “We’re thrilled to join forces with the BBC on launching Dr Who, a sleek, modern reimagining of one of the world’s most iconic sci-fi properties. The simplified title reflects our goal to make the brand more accessible and recognisable to younger global audiences. It’s Doctor Who for the TikTok age, and we think it’s going to be something truly special!”
As for the new First Doctor, casting announcements are expected soon, with filming set to begin later in 2025. The new series synopsis hints at a fresh narrative, featuring a brilliant and unpredictable teenager, Susan Foreperson, whose behavior raises eyebrows at her school. Concerned teachers, Babs Wright and Iona Chezerton, follow her to the London Central Learning Archive, where they discover a strange purple police box and a half-human traveler going by the name Dr…
Meanwhile, in a related development, former One Direction singer Harry Styles has reportedly landed a lead role in the upcoming reboot, Dr Who. The 31-year-old is said to be portraying the new First Doctor, bringing his unique energy to the beloved franchise. Styles expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I’ve always loved stories that explore time, identity, and adventure. Taking on Dr Who is an enormous honour, and I can’t wait to travel through time in something other than a tour bus.”
Although there has been no official confirmation regarding Styles’ casting from the makers, the anticipation surrounding the new direction of the series is palpable. The original series will conclude in May 2025, making way for the reimagined version that promises to feature an entirely new cast and bold creative direction.
Fans of the franchise are eager to see how this new iteration will unfold, especially with the promise of a fresh take on the iconic character of the Doctor. The show has been a staple of British television for over sixty-two years, and this significant shift marks a pivotal moment in its storied history. As the current era prepares to bow out, the excitement builds for what lies ahead in the world of Dr Who.
