At the moment, Whovians are mostly anticipating the return of David Tennant as the 10th Doctor — or the 14th, if the show’s marketing is to be believed — but let’s not forget that the official next incarnation of the titular character on Doctor Who will be portrayed by none other than the amazingly talented Ncuti Gatwa.
Gatwa, best known for his role as Eric Effiong in Sex Education, is officially the next actor to pick up the sonic screwdriver and travel all of time and space in the TARDIS. And while we were stripped of a first look when Jodie Whittaker’s 13th Doctor regenerated into Tennant’s 10th instead of Gatwa, as would’ve been expected, the BBC is giving us a glimpse into his wardrobe.
As a bonus, Jonathan Groff’s unannounced character is also showcased, and given the historical period we’re dealing with, I think it’ll be extremely difficult not to think of King George whenever he says a line. Or even Kristoff from Frozen, come to think of it.
Gatwa looks positively dashing in that costume. I know we Whovians aren’t really used to warming up to a new Doctor before we see them in a few episodes, but Ncuti is proving an extremely welcome exception. As for his companion, Millie Gibson is coming on board to portray Ruby Sunday, so if all goes right, she could be another Rose Tyler in the making.
I know it might not be a fair comparison or even an expectation they can live up to, but the mere inclusion of Russell T. Davies and his writing brainpower is giving us ideas. So, even if the realist inside you is cautioning restraint, don’t hold back against the impulse to shout “Allons-y!” at the top of your lungs and await the next chapter.