Next Doctor Who revealed as Ncuti Gatwa leaves show – and fans are going crazy

Fans of Doctor Who were shocked to see one major star leave the BBC drama, with a co-star stepping in to fill the main role of the Doctor. Sex Education star Ncuti Gatwa left the iconic show in a dramatic style as he regenerated into Billie Piper in the series finale on Saturday evening.

In an epic two-part season finale, viewers saw the Doctor face the Rani in an extraordinary battle to save the world and the Doctor made the ultimate sacrifice to save the life of one little girl. The credit at the end of the programme said: "Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor. Jodie Whittaker as the Doctor. And introducing Billie Piper". Billie previously played the Doctor's assistant, Rose Tyler, but said that she "couldn't refuse" stepping back onto the Tardis one more time.

Billie first appeared in the Whoniverse when Doctor Who returned to screens in 2005 as the much-loved Companion to the Doctor played by Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant.

In a press release, the BBC said: "Just how and why she [Billie Piper] is back remains to be seen…" The actress said she was delighted to be returning to the show, but that fans would have to "wait and see" what her character did next.

In a statement, she shared: "It’s no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that TARDIS one more time was just something I couldn’t refuse, but who, how, why and when, you’ll just have to wait and see."

Meanwhile, speaking of his decision to leave, 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. 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.”

Fans shared that their "minds were blown" as the reveal took place - with a very mixed bag of feelings. Posting to X/Twitter, one shared: "My mind is absolutely blown! What is happening?! #DoctorWho."

Another added: "I've really got to sit with this ending for a few days. Cause I really don't know what direction the show is going to go in now. This is the first regeneration I hated. It did not feel like it was Ncutis time to go yet. Still feels like we have barely had him. #DoctorWho."

Someone else penned: "You know what the longer I think about it the more I'm actually liking the ending and the regeneration cause you can actually do quite a few interesting stories with that (and because I LOVE Billie Piper) but let's see if RTD will deliver or if it will all fall flat #doctorwho."