Billie Piper returns to Dr Who replacing Ncuti Gatwa as The Doctor after regeneration

Billie Piper has replaced as the Doctor, with the character regenerating during the finale of science-fiction series . The actress previously appeared as Rose Tyler, companion to the doctor between 2005 and 2006.

from the sci-fi series, she went on to make cameo appearances in 2008 and 2010. Billie previously returned for the 50th anniversary special as a separate character but was still credited as Rose Tyler. The huge news comes just days after speculation that Ncuti was preparing to step down from the role.

Speaking about her return, Billie said: "It's no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that Tardis one more time was just something I couldn't refuse."

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In a statement released by the , Ncuti Gatwa said: "You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it.

"This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever. There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe.

"The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show, and I can't thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in and making this such a touching experience.

"I've loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have. I'll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor."

Meanwhile, showrunner Russell T Davies said: "What a Doctor! Thank you, Ncuti! As his final words say, this has been an absolute joy, and the team in Cardiff and everyone who has worked on this show for the past few years are so lucky to have been part of Ncuti's great adventure as he shoots off to stratospheric new heights."

Taking to social media, fans couldn't contain their joy. One said: "OMFG just watched the final episode of Doctor Who. Spoiler alert. Billie Piper as the Doctor. WTF." A second added: "Billie Piper as the 16th Doctor wasn’t what I expected but hey it is something!" Meanwhile, another tweeted: "Billie Piper in Doctor Who. In the year 2025. not on my bingo cards."

Ncuti was first announced for the role in May 2022 and instantly became a hit with fans of the series across the globe. His first appearance was part of the dramatic 60th anniversary, which aired in November the following year.

In an epic season two finale, The Reality War fans saw Ncuti's final scenes play out. The dramatic scenes saw the Doctor face the Rani in a tense battle to save the , with Ncuti's character making a tough sacrifice to save the life of a little girl.

The news comes afterRumours had been swirling that the series could be axed if Disney decided to end its co-production deal amidst falling ratings and backlash against "woke" storylines.

But sources on the sci-fi series, which generates around £100million for Studios through global licensing deals and merchandising, claim that showrunner has already planned the next two seasons, having almost completed scripts for series 16 and with stories for the 17th series worked out.

It was also claimed that if departs, it might not have as big an impact as feared by some fans. This is due to a "huge chunk" of the extra budget - up to £10 million per episode - is spent on the technical task of improving the picture quality to a level which wouldn’t be necessary if it reverted back to being a BBC standalone series.

The BBC broadcasts its high-definition shows in 2K picture quality, but Disney needs a 4K image for its streaming service, and the additional effects work costs a significant amount. One source claimed that the reason the show, which first aired in 1963, has a huge and loyal global audience is unrelated to the cash injection from Disney.

"When Doctor Who began its partnership with Disney+, there was additional funding put in place. Doctor Who is an expensive show to make, with its effects budget taking up a significant part of the overall spend, so if Disney were to withdraw its funding, then there wouldn't be as significant an impact on production as some fans may think. The TARDIS set is still standing in Cardiff, all ready to go on new adventures."

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