Who is next?
Hey everyone,
Welcome back to the lab,
In case you haven't heard the news (where have you been?!) today is has been confirmed that both The 13th Doctor herself and Showrunner Chris Chibnall are going to be leaving their respective roles on Doctor Who after a trio of specials in 2022.
Rumours have circulated for quite some time that Jodie was going to be leaving the role, however the news that also Showrunner Chris Chibnall is leaving comes as a shock to many. This means going forward we have the following:
First off we have Series 13, having just debuted a teaser, releasing towards the end of this year. This has been marketed as a 6-part event serial. The whole series being one big story and linking instead of individual episodes. After this two specials were further announced for 2022. However the BBC have confirmed that they have asked for an additional Feature-Length special to air late 2022 which will be The 13th Doctors last and where she regenerates.
Now it isn't clear whether the trio of 2022 specials will link to the big story event of Series 13, however we can assume that it is highly likely.
Personally, I am sad that Jodie is leaving. I think her time as The 13th Doctor has paved the way for a new era of the show. She has had some standout moments and episodes, and for me Series 12 had some of my favourite moments. I’m personally glad she is getting a feature-length adventure to end her tenure and I really hope she goes out in style.
As for Chibnall, whilst I don't think he has been the strongest showrunner, it will still be sad to see him leave. Having cast the first female Doctor and having some strong stories as well as a strong series arc in Series 12, it is a shame to see him go and also a surprise.
Onto the future though, the BBC have confirmed that a new showrunner and the 14th Doctor will be announced in due course, meaning the show will not be put to rest. This is also quite exciting as we enter 2023 and Doctor Who’s 60th anniversary! The stakes will surely be high for whoever takes over. The BBC have not announced how they are celebrating the 60th yet, but fans can be assured it will be in style.
Speculation will now run rampant with who is taking over both roles, we here at the lab are very excited to find out. Whilst we have our own hopes, we are not going to reveal them just yet, But we will cover any news that will be released!
Seeing any Doctor leave the show is sad, whether or not they are your favourite, and Jodie is no exception. Not only has she been incredible in this role, but she has been a role model to many who have been able to see this remarkable women grace our screens for the past couple years. I for one am excited to see her upcoming adventures and i truly hope she is able to leave in style!
Time will tell. Time will tell.
What are your opinions on the news? Who would you like the new Doctor or Showrunner to be?! Get in touch!
Stay safe, look out for each other.
Harry x