Who could be the next Doctor on Doctor Who after Jodie Whittaker's exit?

Jodie Whittaker
(Image credit: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for BBCAmerica)

The Doctor is out.

Jodie Whittaker is set to exit the popular British sci-fi series Doctor Who, the BBC has announced. She was the first woman to portray the lead character of the Doctor since the show's debut in 1963 and will be leaving after three seasons. Showrunner Chris Chibnall is also stepping down alongside Whittaker in 2022.

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Olly Alexander has also been rumored to be in talks for the role, though he has denied those reports, with his agent saying he is "focusing on his music, for the time being." Another popular pick among fans is Hayley Atwell, but she said in 2017 she wasn't interested.

Whittaker was introduced as the 13th Doctor in 2017 following Peter Capaldi's departure as the character. She's set to return in a new season later this year, followed by three specials in 2022, the last of which will serve as her swan song.

"I don't think I'll ever be able to express what this role has given me," Whittaker said. "I will carry the Doctor and the lessons I've learnt forever."

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Brendan Morrow

Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.