This article features MAJOR spoilers for the season two finale of Doctor Who
Summary
Doctor Whostunned fans this past weekend with the season finale, which featured a surprise regeneration.This brought an end to Ncuti Gatwa’s role as the titular Time Lord after just two seasons. However, his exit opened the door for an even more shocking return, asBillie Piper regenerated to seemingly be the new Doctor.
Piper is someoneDoctor Whofans are very familiar with due to her previous stint on the show as Rose Tyler, who was previously a companion for Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant. However, people have been sad to see Gatwa depart the show as his energy and charisma brought a fresh spin on the iconic role. His time was brief, but the 32-year-old gained plenty of plaudits fromDoctor Who’sregular viewers in what was often an emotional portrayal of the character.
Gatwa’s long-term future as the Doctor had been a talking point throughout the second season, mainly due to the question marks over the entire show and whether or not it will continue moving forward. However, people didn’t fully expect Gatwa to regenerate, ashis exit ensured his run as the Doctor is the second shortest in the history ofDoctor Who.However, theSex Educationstar has now reflected on the decision in a lengthy and emotional statement to the fans viaInstagram.
“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. I’ve loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have. I’ll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.”
Gatwa’s time as part ofDoctor Whomay have been shorter than most people had initially anticipated, but he certainly left his mark on the series. His partnership with Ruby Sunday was memorable, and he was able to battle some iconic villains along the way, both new and old. There may have been complaints about woke storylines and poor ratings, but he has been involved in some brilliant episodes throughout his stint. ‘73 Yards, ‘Boom,’ and ‘Lux’ all pushed the boundaries ofDoctor Whoin unique ways and became episodes that fans are unlikely to forget in a hurry, regardless of how Gatwa’s overall time on the show will be remembered.
The regeneration is believed to have taken place during a late reshoot, as theoriginal season two ending forDoctor Whowas reportedly different. Gatwa was expected to remain in the role, as the first ending that was filmed saw him, Ruby, Belinda Chandra, and various other characters being involved in a party. Those plans were evidently changed at some point to feature the regeneration, although the exact reason for Gatwa’s departure is currently unknown.
Even though Piper has now returned toDoctor Who, there is still no clear answer onthe show’s long-term future.Neither the BBC nor Disney has made an official announcement regarding whether a third season has been greenlit, which will leave many people in limbo until some clarity is provided. However, given that they have ended season two on such a significant cliffhanger, it would likely prove to be a serious source of contention if the series wasn’t brought back in the immediate future.Doctor Whonow needs to reveal exactly why Piper has returned, ushering in a fresh era of the show that’s set to have some nostalgia at the same time.
