Showrunner Russell T Davies took to social media to announce that the Doctor Who Christmas special has been canceled. He also shared updates on the series’ future. Additionally, he debunked claims about his involvement in the script and denied that any actor was attached to the project.
Why was Doctor Who Christmas Special canceled?
Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor Who faced massive backlash from across the fandom; thus, the BBC decided to give the entire series a creative overhaul. The network decided that, rather than giving fans a one-off Christmas special, it should invest in the project long-term.
The BBC addressed this in a statement, acknowledging that this news might be disappointing for fans, but it was taken after careful consideration. They wrote, “But in order to set the show up for future series, it was decided that, rather than bridge the gap with a one off special, we are choosing to push forward to invest in the long-term future of the show which ensures that when the Tardis lands once more, it does so in all its glory.” They revealed that through this decision, they aim to secure the next phase of the show for future generations.
Why is Russell T Davies leaving Doctor Who?
Davies is leaving Doctor Who as the BBC is calling different production companies to get its rights and produce it.
He wrote on Instagram, “And so GOODBYE from me to Doctor Who but HELLO to a big new future for the show, as the BBC announces it’s putting the show out to tender.” He claimed that a Christmas special was announced earlier, as there was no guarantee for the series future. Now that they have received clarity, the special will be axed, and more Doctor Who content could be expected in the future from a new showrunner.
“Now I’m as excited as anyone to see what comes next! Will they keep the theme tune? Will they lose the blue box? Will they bring back the Drahvin?! It’s all up for grabs, which is so Doctor Who, exciting and unpredictable and new! Here comes the future, vworp vworp,” he added, expressing excitement for the future.
