Two years after Ncuti Gatwa took on the mantle of Doctor Who from David Tennant, the Rwandan-Scottish actor is leaving the show, with Billie Piper set to take over. Gatwa recently shared his thoughts on his brief but eventful stint as the extra-terrestrial, time-travelling entity.
Ncuti Gatwa issues statement on leaving Doctor Who after Season 2 finale
Ncuti Gatwa has opened up about his exit from Doctor Who, noting that he will forever remain grateful for getting the opportunity to portray such an iconic character. “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” (via BBC).
Despite the controversies surrounding his take on the beloved Doctor Who, the Sex Education star had positive things to say about his stint on the show. “This journey has been one that I will never forget and a role that will be part of me forever,” the actor shared.
“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.”
After thanking fans for accepting him as the fifteenth iteration of Doctor Who, Ncuti Gatwa remarked that it was time for him to leave the role and “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.”
Ncuti Gatwa left the Doctor Who series after Season 2‘s finale, passing on the torch to Billie Piper, who had previously portrayed the character of Rose Tyler on the British sci-fi drama.
