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Fans of Doctor Who were left stunned earlier this year when Ncuti Gatwa’s tenure as the Fifteenth Doctor ended as abruptly as it began. After just two seasons in the TARDIS, the 32-year-old actor regenerated in a dramatic twist, into none other than Billie Piper, reprising her legendary role as Rose Tyler.
Now, for the first time since his surprise exit, Gatwa has opened up about why he stepped away from one of British television’s most iconic roles.
Speaking candidly, the Rwandan-Scottish star admitted the pressures of playing the Time Lord became too much.
“I’m getting old, and my body was tired… and I’ve now just started doing some ballet, so I’m making really great decisions,” he said with a wry smile.
“It’s the most amazing job in the world, a job that any actor would dream of, and because it’s so good, it’s strenuous. It takes a lot out of you, physically, emotionally, mentally. And so it was time.”
Gatwa took over the role in 2023, becoming the Fifteenth Doctor and breaking new ground as the first Black actor to lead the franchise. His fresh, bold energy quickly won over fans, but few expected his run to be so short-lived.
Viewers were especially shocked because his departure had not been teased or announced before the fateful episode aired. The regeneration scene caught everyone off-guard, especially when it was revealed that Billie Piper, beloved for her role as Rose Tyler alongside David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor, would be stepping into the lead.
Ncuti’s character regenerated into Rose Tyler (played by Billie Piper, pictured) in scenes that left viewers in meltdown – Credit: BBC
While some Whovians have expressed disappointment at losing Gatwa so soon, many have praised his decision to prioritise his health and wellbeing, and his contribution to the series remains significant.
“It takes a lot to step into that role, and even more to know when to step out,” one fan wrote on social media. “We’ll always remember Ncuti’s Doctor.”
The actor, who rose to prominence in Sex Education before his Doctor Who casting, hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a return at some point in the future.
When asked if he might ever reprise the role in a special or cameo, Gatwa teased:
“Never say never.”
As the franchise prepares to celebrate its next chapter with Billie Piper at the helm, Gatwa remains a firm favourite among fans for his trailblazing time in the TARDIS, however brief.
For now, he’s putting his focus into new creative pursuits, including ballet, which he jokingly called another “really great decision.”
And while the Doctor may have regenerated once again, one thing is clear: Ncuti Gatwa has already made an indelible mark on the Whoniverse.
