Billie Piper in Doctor Who S02E08 / BBC
Billie Piper will reportedly not be playing The Doctor in Doctor Who, despite strong hints to the contrary in the most recent new episode.
At the end of the most recent series, Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor regenerated in the TARDIS, only for Piper to reemerge in his place.
Piper previously played companion Rose Tyler on the show, leaving open the question of whether Rose was returning or that she in fact was somehow the new Doctor.
According to The Sun, however, Piper “will NOT be the new Doctor” and producers are instead searching for someone else to take on the iconic role.
“From the moment it was confirmed Ncuti was leaving, bosses have subtly been putting feelers out among the industry for an actor who could play The Doctor,” a source told the newspaper.
“Despite once being one of the most coveted roles in TV, it’s now seen as a bit of a poisoned chalice.
“Anyone taking on the job will want to know if they’re playing it for a one-off festive special or beyond as they’ll want to plan their workload over coming years.”
Filming on this year’s Christmas special is due to begin within the next few months, although the BBC has yet to confirm plans for the show beyond that episode.
