After delivering two unforgettable seasons as the Doctor, Ncuti Gatwa is officially stepping away from the TARDIS—and he’s finally breaking his silence on why.

The 32-year-old actor, who skyrocketed to stardom with Netflix’s Sex Education, has revealed that the physical, emotional, and mental toll of the role was the main reason behind his departure.

The announcement came shortly after the dramatic season finale aired on Saturday night, and fans had been wondering if there was more going on behind the scenes.

“We’re Only Human”: Ncuti Gets Real About the Demands of the Role

In a candid video message, Ncuti explained that playing the Time Lord is no small feat.

“It’s a role that demands a lot of you physically and emotionally and mentally,” he said.

“The actors playing the Doctor are only actors playing the Doctor.

Unfortunately, we are mere mortals.”

He added that, as much as he loves the role, he knew his body was asking for rest:

“I would love to have the energy and the youth to be able to do this full time for the rest of my life, but my knees are telling me it’s time.”

A Fond Farewell to the TARDIS

Ncuti also shared a heartfelt farewell note with fans, looking back on the wild and wonderful adventures his Doctor had faced:

“Monsters, goblins, gods, human-eating slugs, invisible brain-altering creatures, evil barbers, conspiracy theorists… you’ve had quite a busy two years.

Well done and rest up son. Thank you endlessly.”

And when it came to saying goodbye to the sonic screwdriver? That part hit him hard.

“You know when you get cast, at some point, you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver… but nothing quite prepares you for it.

This journey has been one I will never forget and a role that will be part of me forever.”

Was It His Choice? BBC Denies Exit Rumors

Despite his touching farewell, Ncuti’s departure has sparked speculation from fans who believe the decision may not have been entirely his.

Some pointed out that in an October 2024 interview on The Graham Norton Show, Ncuti mentioned plans to film another series of Doctor Who in the coming year.

That led to swirling rumors that the actor had been abruptly dropped.

However, the BBC quickly shut down those claims:

“Any suggestion that Ncuti Gatwa has been ‘axed’ is pure fiction,” a BBC spokesperson said firmly.

Fans Feel Ncuti Deserved More

The fandom didn’t hold back their feelings online, with many expressing disappointment over how his time as the Doctor was handled:

“Ncuti Gatwa has been done so disrespectfully this era,” one fan tweeted.

“Just a Twitter post announcement? No farewell? He deserved better.”

Another added:

“I’m actually sad and disappointed Ncuti Gatwa isn’t the Doctor anymore.

We finally got a feel for him and now he’s gone. He deserved one more season.”

Billie Piper Steps In as the New Doctor

Taking over the iconic role is none other than Billie Piper—yes, that Billie Piper.

She originally played companion Rose Tyler back in 2005 alongside Christopher Eccleston’s Ninth Doctor.

Now, in a bold twist, she’s regenerating into the Doctor herself.

That makes Billie the second woman to officially take on the role, following Jodie Whittaker’s tenure as the 13th Doctor.

Surprise Cameo and Alternate Universes in the Finale

The finale itself wasn’t short on drama or surprise.

Jodie Whittaker made a guest appearance, and Ncuti’s version of the Doctor was shown traveling through alternate realities—adding to the sense of finality and change for longtime fans.

What’s Next for Doctor Who?

While fans may still be mourning Ncuti’s departure, the Doctor Who universe isn’t slowing down.

The BBC confirmed that decisions about a third season will only be made after season two finishes airing.

There’s also more content coming, including the eagerly awaited spin-off The War Between the Land and the Sea, which is part of the Disney+ 26-episode deal.

One Era Ends, Another Begins

It’s clear Ncuti left a lasting mark in just two seasons—and while fans wish they had more time with his Doctor, his performance will be remembered as a bold, heartfelt, and groundbreaking chapter in the show’s long history.

As one fan put it, “He and Rouge deserved an entire era together.”

And honestly? A lot of people agree.