Doctor Who's Russell T Davies responds to fan concerns following big show change

"It is absolutely the same show."

By Stefania Sarrubba

9 Jan 2023

Doctor Who's returning showrunner Russell T Davies has reassured fans about Disney+'s involvement on the show.

Last year, it was announced Disney+ acquired the distribution rights for Doctor Who in territories outside of the UK (it will remain exclusive to BBC One and iPlayer on this side of the pond).

"I know people are, naturally, worried about American producers having notes on things. Well, don't be. They're giving excellent notes," Davies said in the latest Doctor Who Magazine.

ncuti gatwa and russell t davies at the 2021 baftas

Dave J HoganGetty Images

"And I'm here to tell you, you haven't watched a drama on British television in 20 years that hasn't had American notes on it. Everything is a co-production... it's really, completely normal."

The showrunner, who will be helming the sci-fi show again starting with the upcoming 60th anniversary specials, also hinted at a well-known villain returning.

"And if you want any more reassurance, let me just tell you that we're about to transmit the words 'Mavic Chen' on television for the first time since 1966. It is absolutely the same show," he said.

BBC

Davies' comment refers to a classic Doctor Who baddie who was president of the Solar System in the future and forged a dangerous alliance with the Daleks.

Premiering in November this year, the special episodes will see the introduction of the Fifteenth Doctor played by Sex Education star Ncuti Gatwa, who is taking on the role after a brief reprisal from David Tennant as Tenth-turned-Fourteenth.

Doctor Who returns in 2023 on BBC One in the UK and Disney+ elsewhere. Meanwhile, in the US, the show airs on BBC America, with series 1-12 available on HBO Max. Classic Doctor Who streams on BritBox in the UK.