The BBC has confirmed that star Jodie Whittaker and showrunner Chris Chibnall are both leaving Doctor Who in 2022 after three seasons in their respective roles.
Before the duo exit after being the charge of the iconic long-running sci-fi series since 2017, Whittaker will see out her role as the Thirteenth Doctor with Series 13 which is expected to debut later this year as well as three feature-length specials in 2022. The thirteenth series is set to feature a single serialised storyline across a shortened eight-episode run with companions Mandip Gill as Yaz and stand-up comedian John Bishop as Dan.
“My heart is so full of love for this show, for the team who make it, for the fans who watch it and for what it has brought to my life,” Whittaker said in a statement. “I cannot thank Chris enough for entrusting me with his incredible stories. We knew that we wanted to ride this wave side by side, and pass on the baton together. So here we are, weeks away from wrapping on the best job I have ever had.”
Chibnall added: “Jodie and I made a “three series and out” pact with each other at the start of this once-in-a-lifetime blast. So now our shift is done, and we’re handing back the Tardis keys. Jodie’s magnificent, iconic Doctor has exceeded all our high expectations.”
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The first of next year’s specials will screen on New Year’s Day, which will be followed by a second episode in the spring. Whittaker’s last portrayal as the Time Lord will be broadcast in the fall of 2022.
