Ncuti Gatwa has officially exited his role as the Doctor after two seasons on Doctor Who, with his final episode ending in a jaw-dropping regeneration twist, transforming into a face fans know all too well.
Rumours of a surprise regeneration had been circulating ahead of the series finale, which dropped this morning (AEST). In an emotional closing sequence, Gatwa’s Fifteenth Doctor bid farewell to companion Belinda Chandra (played by Varada Sethu) before stepping back into the TARDIS and regenerating into none other than Billie Piper.
Piper, who originally played Rose Tyler — companion to the Ninth Doctor (Christopher Eccleston) and the Tenth Doctor (David Tennant) — now finds herself in a role that fans are still trying to define.
“It’s no secret how much I love this show,” Billie said following the reveal. “I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there.
“The opportunity to step back on that TARDIS one more time was just something I couldn’t refuse. But who, how, why and when, you’ll just have to wait and see.”
While the BBC confirmed Piper’s return, it has not yet clarified if she is the next Doctor or playing another significant role in the show’s unfolding mythology. “Just how and why she is back remains to be seen,” the broadcaster teased.
No official return date for Doctor Who has been announced.
Ncuti Bids a Heartfelt Farewell
Following the finale, Ncuti Gatwa shared a message to fans, reflecting on his time in the iconic role.
“You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end,” he said.
“But nothing quite prepares you for it. This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever.”
Gatwa expressed deep gratitude for the support he received from Doctor Who’s global fanbase.
“There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that’s existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe,” he said.
“The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show… I’ll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.”
Showrunner Russell T Davies also honoured Gatwa’s departure, saying, “What a Doctor! Thank you, Ncuti! As his final words say, this has been an absolute joy.”
“The team in Cardiff and everyone who has worked on this show for the past few years, are so lucky to have been part of Ncuti’s great adventure as he shoots off to stratospheric new heights.”
As the Whoniverse enters a new era of intrigue, fans are left with one burning question: is Billie Piper now the Doctor, or is Doctor Who about to deliver its boldest twist yet?
