Ncuti Gatwa, the latest actor to portray Doctor Who’s legendary Time Lord, has shared his experiences of both support and backlash since joining the beloved sci-fi series. Despite facing instances of homophobic and racist abuse, Gatwa expressed gratitude for the “warmth and love” he’s felt from fans.
Fans first saw Gatwa as the fifteenth Time Lord in last year’s anniversary episode, “The Giggle,” and he officially took on the full role in the 2023 Christmas special.
In a recent interview, Gatwa acknowledged that the role has brought a mix of reactions, but he focuses on the positive aspects of fan support. Speaking to Vanity Fair on Wednesday, 13 November, he noted: “I wouldn’t be the only Black lead that’s taken over a sci-fi franchise and received that sort of treatment. Unfortunately, those voices exist in sci-fi fandoms—but they’re not the only voices.”
Describing his time on set, Gatwa emphasised the dedication of the show’s fans. “I just remember feeling a lot of warmth and love, being embraced into a big nerd family. When we’re shooting Doctor Who, there are fans outside the studio or on location every single time, be it at 4 a.m. or in minus-12-degree weather,” he shared. “That’s beautiful—it shows what the show means to them, so I concentrate on that more than anything.”
Gatwa continued, “I don’t want to invalidate the very real presence of racism and homophobia. I don’t pretend they don’t exist or that they don’t affect me. They do. But I try to look at the many positives that came from joining the Whoniverse.”
While Gatwa is not the first Black actor to play a Doctor—Jo Martin appeared as the Fugitive Doctor in 2020—he noted that “race does make an appearance” in his portrayal, adding depth to his character’s experience in the show.
Fans can anticipate Gatwa’s return in this year’s Christmas special, “Joy to the World,” which also stars Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan.
