Doctor Who is losing two pivotal players.
According to the BBC, both showrunner Chris Chibnall and the Doctor herself, Jodie Whittaker, will exit after a trio of specials that will culminate in fall 2022.
"Jodie and I made a 'three series and out' pact with each other at the start of this once-in-a-lifetime blast," Chibnall said. "So now our shift is done, and we’re handing back the TARDIS keys."
"Jodie’s magnificent, iconic Doctor has exceeded all our high expectations," he continued. "She’s been the gold standard leading actor, shouldering the responsibility of being the first female Doctor with style, strength, warmth, generosity and humour. She captured the public imagination and continues to inspire adoration around the world, as well as from everyone on the production. I can’t imagine working with a more inspiring Doctor – so I’m not going to! I wish our successors - whoever the BBC and BBC Studios choose - as much fun as we’ve had. They’re in for a treat!"
"In 2017 I opened my glorious gift box of size 13 shoes," Whittaker added. "I could not have guessed the brilliant adventures, worlds and wonders I was to see in them. My heart is so full of love for this show, for the team who make it, for the fans who watch it and for what it has brought to my life. And I cannot thank Chris enough for entrusting me with his incredible stories. We knew that we wanted to ride this wave side by side, and pass on the baton together. So here we are, weeks away from wrapping on the best job I have ever had. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to express what this role has given me. I will carry the Doctor and the lessons I’ve learnt forever."
Chibnall became the showrunner of Doctor Who in 2018, while Whittaker joined the series as the first female Doctor the year prior. However, reports of Whittaker's impending departure began to make the rounds in January 2021.
"I know change can be scary and none of us know what’s out there. That’s why we keep looking. Travel Hopefully. The Universe will surprise you. Constantly," Whittaker concluded.
Doctor Who Series 13 will premiere on BBC in the United Kingdom and BBC America in the United States later this year.
Source: BBC