
Before Sex Education star Ncuti Gatwa was cast as the next Doctor, Doctor Who executives contemplated casting a non-binary actor.
The BBC released a new trailer on Christmas Day, promising the fascinating storylines that will unravel in the beloved sci-fi series when it returns in November this year, featuring David Tennant’s return as the Time Lord and Ncuti’s debut.
The teaser also announced the presence of Yasmin Finney from Heartstopper, the return of Catherine Tate as Donna Noble, and Neil Patrick Harris from It’s A Sin.
Ncuti’s Doctor emerges towards the end of the trailer, saying, ‘Someone explain me what the heck is going on here.’
Looking back on the search for the Fifteenth Doctor, returning showrunner Russell T Davies and executive producer Phil Collinson stated that they saw a wide range of candidates.
Speaking to Doctor Who Magazine (via RadioTimes.com), Russell said: ‘As ever, we turned to Andy Pryor [casting director] and said, ‘Bring us the best in the land.’ We saw all backgrounds, all genders.’
Phil added: ‘We saw men, we saw women, we saw one non-binary actor.’
Russell did note, though, that the contenders did share one thing in common: their age range.
‘I think, as a rule, we were looking for younger – most of the people we saw were under 30 – but not as a definite rule, and kind of new talent,’ he stated.
Barbie star Ncuti revealed his excitement at being cast as the Fifteenth Doctor after learning of his casting.

‘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,’ the 30-year-old said at the time.
‘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.’
He continued: ‘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 will return to the BBC in November 2023.