What started as a bold new chapter in Doctor Who history is now surrounded by swirling speculation, political controversy, and a dramatic drop in ratings.
Ncuti Gatwa, the first Black queer actor to take on the iconic role of the Doctor, might be stepping away from the franchise after just two seasons—and fans and insiders are talking.
A Ratings Slump and Storyline Backlash Stir Up Trouble
Viewers once tuned in by the millions to follow the Doctor’s adventures across time and space.
But since Gatwa took over the TARDIS in 2023, audience numbers have tumbled.
While the BBC insists the consolidated figures including iPlayer views still show around 5 million, the overnight ratings dipped to a concerning 2–3 million.
Critics and longtime fans have pointed fingers at the show’s new direction—particularly episodes featuring non-binary aliens, updated portrayals of classic villains, and social commentary.
Some fans were left cold by the decision to modernize characters like Davros, the infamous creator of the Daleks.
Once portrayed as disfigured and wheelchair-bound, Davros returned in 2023 with a younger and able-bodied look.
It was an intentional shift by showrunner Russell T Davies, who reportedly found the original version problematic.
Eurovision Drama Adds Fuel to the Fire
Tensions rose even further when Ncuti Gatwa pulled out of announcing the UK jury’s points during the Eurovision Grand Final—just moments after Israel’s contestant, a survivor of the October 7 attacks, qualified for the final.
The BBC swiftly announced Sophie Ellis-Bextor would replace him, but the timing left many wondering if politics had played a role.
Gatwa, who has voiced support for Palestine in recent social media posts, had faced backlash online after his participation was announced.
Some accused him of not “reading the room,” while others openly said they were boycotting the event because of Israel’s inclusion.
BBC insiders admitted they’d suspected he might step down, and Sophie had reportedly been on standby “for some time.”
The BBC insisted that the announcement of Gatwa’s withdrawal aired before Israel officially qualified, hoping to deflect claims of political messaging.
Still, sources close to the production described the incident as “incredibly embarrassing” for a network that considers Gatwa one of its most visible stars.
Has Ncuti Already Moved On?
While the BBC has dismissed rumors that Gatwa has already been axed from Doctor Who as “pure speculation,” there’s growing chatter that the actor is ready to exit on his own terms.
Insiders say he’s been frustrated with how the show is being handled and is eager to focus on Hollywood opportunities.
There’s been no official confirmation from Gatwa himself, and his reps—as well as those from Disney+ and the BBC—have declined to comment.
However, a BBC spokesperson reiterated: “The decision on Season 3 will be made after Season 2 airs.”
For now, it appears that a long break is on the cards once the current series wraps.
A Show in Crisis Mode?
Behind the scenes, many believe the series may hit pause after Gatwa’s final season airs.
One source called his time as the Doctor “largely depressing,” suggesting the recent controversies and declining viewership have made it difficult for the franchise to thrive.
While the BBC insists the show has not been shelved, insiders suggest that it’s headed “back to the drawing board.”
Between the political tensions, creative disagreements, and shifting audience expectations, it seems Doctor Who is once again facing a major regeneration—just not the kind fans are used to.
A Look Back at the Legacy of the Doctor
For those less familiar, Doctor Who has been a cornerstone of British sci-fi since its 1963 debut.
The story follows a mysterious alien known as the Doctor, a Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey, who travels through time in a ship disguised as a police box—the TARDIS.
With a rotating cast of companions and a long list of iconic enemies like the Daleks and Cybermen, the show has reinvented itself many times.
Each new Doctor brings a fresh personality and perspective, thanks to the character’s unique ability to regenerate.
The concept of regeneration was introduced in the 1960s after the original actor, William Hartnell, had to leave the show due to health issues.
Since then, many actors have taken on the role—including Jodie Whittaker, the first female Doctor, who handed the baton to Ncuti Gatwa in 2023.
What’s Next for Doctor Who and Gatwa?
As the dust settles around the controversies and ratings dip, one thing’s for sure: the future of Doctor Who hangs in the balance.
Fans are waiting to see if the BBC will give the show a fresh reboot, a longer break, or a complete creative overhaul.
As for Ncuti Gatwa, whether he regenerates into a Hollywood star or surprises everyone with a return to the TARDIS, his time as the Doctor has certainly made headlines—even if not always for the reasons anyone expected.