News May 09, 2022
Ncuti Gatwa Becomes 1st Black Full-Time ‘Doctor Who’!
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The “Doctor” is in the building!
On Sunday, BBC announced that Ncuti Gatwa — famously known for his role in Netflix’s “Sex Education” — will replace Jodie Whittaker as the 14th Doctor Who!
This means Gatwa will become the first Black actor to take on the lead role full-time.
In a statement, Gatwa, who was born in Rwanda, said he is “beyond excited” about his new gig, adding that he feels both “deeply honoured” and “of course a little bit scared.”
“This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care,” he said. “I will endeavour my utmost to do the same.”
Prior to the 2022 BAFTA TV Awards, Gatwa told BBC News that playing the Doctor “means a lot to so many people, including myself.”
“I feel very grateful to have had the baton handed over and I’m going to try to do my best,” he explained.
In a statement, “Doctor Who” showrunner Russell Davies said Gatwa “dazzled us” and “seized hold of the Doctor” during pre-production.
“The future is here and it’s Ncuti!” Davies added. “Sometimes talent walks through the door and it’s so bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand back in awe and thank my lucky stars.”
He continued, “It’s an honour to work with him, and a hoot, I can’t wait to get started. I’m sure you’re dying to know more, but we’re rationing ourselves for now, with the wonderful Jodie’s epic finale yet to come. But I promise you, 2023 will be spectacular!”
“Doctor Who” Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore added that Gatwa is “a striking and fearless young actor whose talent and energy will set the world alight and take Doctor Who on extraordinary adventures” thanks in part to his “incredible dynamism.”
The science fiction program follows the adventures of a rogue “Time Lord” who goes by the name of “The Doctor.” Throughout its run, there have been 14 different actors who have played the lead, including Matt Smith and David Tennant.
Congratulations to Ncuti on making history!
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