Jodie Whittaker to LEAVE Doctor Who in 2022

Jodie will depart after a trio of specials

Author: Rhys FreemanPublished 29th Jul 2021
Last updated 29th Jul 2021

The BBC have confirmed that Jodie Whittaker will leave Doctor Who along with head writer Chris Chibnall after a trio of specials in Autumn 2022. Jodie has been playing the 13th Doctor since 2017.

Her entrance to the show made history as the first woman to play the iconic science fiction role which was first played by William Hartnell in 1963.

When speaking about their departure, Chris Chibnall said: “Jodie and I made a “three series and out” pact with each other at the start of this once-in-a-lifetime blast. So now our shift is done, and we’re handing back the TARDIS keys.”

Jodie Whittaker said: “In 2017 I opened my glorious gift box of size 13 shoes. I could not have guessed the brilliant adventures, worlds and wonders I was to see in them. My heart is so full of love for this show, for the team who make it, for the fans who watch it and for what it has brought to my life. And I cannot thank Chris enough for entrusting me with his incredible stories. We knew that we wanted to ride this wave side by side, and pass on the baton together. So here we are, weeks away from wrapping on the best job I have ever had. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to express what this role has given me. I will carry the Doctor and the lessons I’ve learnt forever.

“I know change can be scary and none of us know what’s out there. That’s why we keep looking. Travel Hopefully. The Universe will surprise you. Constantly.”

The specials will happen in late 2022 and be a part of the BBC's centenary celebrations celebrating 100 years since the broadcaster was launched. Two specials for 2022 had already been confirmed but BBC One have now asked for a third feature-length adventure which will see the 13th Doctor regenerate.

Doctor Who is set to return this Autumn with series 13 as a six part series with a single storyline - breaking away from the show's usual 'monster of the week' format. Jodie will be joined by returning companion Mandip Gill (Yaz), and new additions John Bishop (Dan Lewis) and Jacob Anderson (Vinder)

WATCH: Doctor Who series 13 Trailer

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