BBC confirms future of Doctor Who with disappointing statement and fans will be gutted

The BBC has confirmed that the Doctor Who Christmas special has been axed. The broadcaster acknowledged the move would prove "disappointing" for fans of the beloved sci-fi series, adding that the decision to cancel the festive episode "was not taken lightly", reports Manchester Evening News.

A statement said: "As part of securing the next phase of the show for future generations, and in line with the BBC's Charter and Agreement requirements, the BBC will put Doctor Who out to competitive tender this year. Doctor Who remains an important part of the BBC, and this tender underpins the BBC's continued commitment to Doctor Who, ensuring audiences will enjoy the show for years to come.

"After careful consideration, the BBC, Russell T Davies, and Bad Wolf have collectively decided not to go ahead with the previously announced Doctor Who Christmas episode.

"This decision was not taken lightly, and we know it will be disappointing for fans, but in order to set the show up for future series, it was decided that rather than bridge the gap with a one off special, we are choosing to push forward to invest in the long-term future of the show which ensures that when the TARDIS lands once more, it does so in all its glory."

The BBC confirmed that further information regarding the tender would be revealed: "in due course".

Doctor Who has been aired by the BBC since 1963, with numerous actors taking on the role of the Time Lord. Most recently, Ncuti Gatwa occupied the TARDIS, portraying Doctor Who from 2023 to 2025.

Last year, his final scenes as the Doctor were broadcast, and as the character regenerated, fans were treated to a fleeting appearance from Billie Piper, who previously portrayed Doctor Who companion Rose Tyler.

Opening up about his choice to bow out, Ncuti said: "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 will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever.

"There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe.

"The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show, and I can't thank the Whoniverse and the Whovians enough for welcoming me in and making this such a touching experience."

Doctor Who airs on the BBC.