Scottish Bafta winner Ncuti Gatwa named as the next Doctor Who

He will replace Jodie Whittaker in the role on the BBC programme.

Scottish Bafta winner Ncuti Gatwa named as the next Doctor Who BBCiStock

Scottish Bafta award winner Ncuti Gatwa has been named as the new Doctor Who.

The Sex Education Actor was officially announced by the BBC on Sunday, and will replace Jodie Whittaker.

Gatwa, 29, was raised in Edinburgh, with his parents having moved there from Rwanda.

Growing up, he went to Boroughmuir High School and Dunfermline High School.

He went on to attend the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow, graduating with a BA in acting in 2013.

The actor began his career with cameo appearance in the 2014 sitcom, Bob Servant.

As well as starring in Sex Education, he also appeared in the Horrible Histories film released in 2019.

Gatwa is also filming for the upcoming Barbie film featuring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling.

Speaking of his new role, he said: “There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited 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.

“I will endeavour my upmost to do the same.  Russell T Davies is almost as iconic as the Doctor himself and being able to work with him is a dream come true.

“His writing is dynamic, exciting, incredibly intelligent and fizzing with danger. An actor’s metaphorical playground. The entire team have been so welcoming and truly give their hearts to the show.

“And so as much as it’s daunting, I’m aware I’m joining a really supportive family. Unlike the Doctor, I may only have one heart but I am giving it all to this show.”

Russell T Davies, showrunner, added: “The future is here and it’s Ncuti! 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.

“Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds. 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!”

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