Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor Who future in doubt after showrunner’s shocking comments

Ncuti Gatwa appears to be leaving the Tardis as the actor has not committed his future to Doctor Who.

The Sex Education favourite will play the Time Lord in the upcoming second season, but has refused to say whether he will stay. And showrunner Russell T Davies has added fuel to the fire by claiming that the BBC and Disney have yet to sign him up to a deal for the next season.

The shocking news broke as Russell, Ncuti and co-star Millie Gibson promoted the second season at Comic-Con in San Diego, California. US media have stated that the plot leaves Ncuti’s future “open”. Ncuti spoke about the “pressure” he felt as the 15th Doctor and admitted that it took him two years to get to grips with the role. The actor also said that he had “no idea” whether he would stay for a third season.

And when asked for an answer on Friday, he smiled nervously and looked at Russell, who confirmed that Ncuti’s future on the show was uncertain. “We’ve shot season two, but it’s only halfway through,” Russell said. “We’ve still got months of post to go. It’s a long way off, so there’s no decisions yet.” Ncuti said playing the Doctor was “surreal”, adding: “It’s still a pinch-me moment.

“I’m still working on the Doctor, but season two was amazing. It felt like the suit really fitted. I found my feet in season one and had the time of my life, but season two felt like a chance to really show off the muscles.”

If he does leave, Ncuti – who will star in a West End production of The Importance of Being Earnest later this year – will be one of the shortest-serving Doctors. Christopher Eccleston left after his first series in 2005, while Jodie Whittaker – the first female Doctor – lasted three series and five specials. So will Ncuti regenerate as his successor? We’ll just have to wait and see…