Doctor Who fans devastated as Ncuti Gatwa breaks | UK News

Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa has spoken out about his determination to go away the long-lasting collection after two seasons.

Ncuti’s ultimate episode as the Doctor aired on Saturday night time (May 31) during the gripping two-part season finale.

The climactic episode noticed the Doctor have interaction in an epic confrontation with the malevolent Rani (Archie Panjabi), ensuing in the Doctor’s selfless act to shield a younger woman’s life.

Addressing his departure, Ncuti stated in a assertion: “You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it.

“This journey has been one that I’ll never neglect, and a function that will likely be half of me perpetually. There are no phrases to describe what it looks like to be solid as the Doctor, nor are there phrases to clarify what it looks like to be accepted into this iconic function that has existed for over 60 years and is really beloved by so many across the globe,” studies Belfast Live.

Ncuti went on to say: “The fans are actually the ultimate character and beating coronary heart of this show and I can not thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in, and making this such a touching expertise.

“I’ve loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have.”

He concluded: “I’ll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.”

Ncuti made his Doctor Who debut during the Sixtieth-anniversary celebrations in November 2023, when the show featured an unprecedented bi-regeneration storyline.

Throughout his time in the TARDIS, Ncuti was accompanied by two loyal companions, Ruby Sunday, performed by Millie Gibson, and Belinda Chandra, portrayed by Varada Sethu.

His efficiency as the Doctor earned him quite a few accolades, including a Best Actor award at the 2024 BAFTA Cymru Awards, as properly as nominations for the BAFTA Scotland Audience Award for Favourite Scot on Screen, and Best Actor in a Drama Series at the 2025 Critics Choice Television Awards in the US.

At the tip of tonight’s instalment, Ncuti’s Doctor regenerated into Billie Piper, who first appeared in the Whoniverse as much-loved companion Rose Tyler back in 2005.

Showrunner Russell T Davies shared his ideas on the shock twist, saying: “Billie once changed the whole of television, back in 2005, and now she’s done it again!

“It’s an honour and a hoot to welcome her back to the TARDIS, but fairly how and why and who is a story yet to be instructed. After 62 years, the Doctor’s adventures are only just starting!”

Billie added: “It’s no secret how a lot I really like this show, and I’ve at all times stated I’d love to return to the Whoniverse as I’ve some of my best recollections there, so to be given the chance to step back on that TARDIS one more time was just one thing I could not refuse, but who, how, why and when, you will just have to wait and see.”

Following the finale, Doctor Who enthusiasts swiftly took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their sadness at Ncuti’s departure, but were thrilled by Billie’s comeback.

“In 18 episodes, 15 has change into one of my all time favorite Doctors and I can not even start to put into phrases how heartbroken I’m that he is gone. I’m genuinely so devastated by it, I’ve not stopped crying for about 45 minutes,” one individual penned.

Another chimed in: “I used to be past captivated by Ncuti and it meant the world to me for him to be The Doctor and so unapologetically himself. I’ll miss him.”

Regarding Billie’s return, a third fan commented: “I’m truly right here for this. I’m sorry to anybody who’s not.. but this is MAD.. and I’m right here for it, genuinely am right here.”

Doctor Who is obtainable to stream on BBC iPlayer