The BBC has announced Ncuti Gatwa is the new Doctor set to take charge of the TARDIS. He will be the fourteenth Doctor, the 14th Doctor, after Jodie Whittaker, who has been the Doctor since 2017.

Ncuti is best known for his critically acclaimed performance in Netflix’s Sex Education as the iconic Eric Effiong, for which he was awarded Best Actor Award at the Scottish BAFTA’s in 2020 as well as numerous nominations including Best Male Performance in a comedy programme at this year’s BAFTA’s.

Speaking of his new role, Ncuti 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 utmost 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.”

Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies adds:

“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!”

Jodie Whittaker is set to leave the role after a final special episode, which will release sometime in late 2022.

However, Ncuti won’t be the first Black Doctor. That distinction and honor went to Jo Martin, who played the Fugitive Doctor in three episodes of the Jodie Whittaker’s Thirteenth Doctor run.

Jo Martin as the Fugitive Doctor.

As a Whovian, the last few seasons of Jodie Whittaker’s Doctor under showrunner Chris Chibnall has been underwhelming and forgettable. I hope the return of Russell T. Davies (who was previously the showrunner of the 9th and 10th Doctors) and a new Doctor will be enough to revitalize the long-running and iconic sci-fi series.

Check out the trailer below: