- The BBC has announced the cancellation of Doctor Who's planned 2026 Christmas special, a decision made by showrunner Russell T Davies and production company Bad Wolf to prioritise the long-term future of the series.
- The broadcaster also revealed that Doctor Who will be put out to competitive tender this year, signalling a potential change in its production and distribution arrangements.
- In addition, Russell T Davies, who was in his second spell as showrunner has announced his exit. Writing on Instagram, Davies said: ‘Goodbye from me to Doctor Who but hello to a big new future for the show, as the BBC announces it’s putting the show out to tender. You’ll have to wait a bit longer for new Doctor Who… but you’ll be waiting for MORE Doctor Who than a one-off. So it’s worth it!”
- This development follows reports of challenges in casting a 16th Time Lord after Ncuti Gatwa's departure last year, with the role reportedly viewed as a ‘poisoned chalice' due to recent series' perceived issues.
- Disney's co-production and international distribution deal for Doctor Who concluded in December after only two seasons, reportedly due to a lack of audience engagement and the show not meeting performance expectations on Disney+.
- The series has experienced a significant decline in viewership and has been the subject of considerable online backlash, including 'wokery' criticisms, which Ncuti Gatwa publicly addressed during his tenure.
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