BBC Doctor Who fans 'devastated' as Ncuti Gatwa breaks silence after exit

Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa has spoken out about his decision to leave the iconic series after two seasons.

Ncuti's final episode as the Doctor aired on Saturday night (May 31) during the gripping two-part season finale.

The climactic episode saw the Doctor engage in an epic confrontation with the malevolent Rani (Archie Panjabi), resulting in the Doctor's selfless act to protect a young girl's life.

Addressing his departure, Ncuti said in a statement: "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," reports Belfast Live.

Ncuti went on to say: "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."

He concluded: "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 made his Doctor Who debut during the 60th-anniversary celebrations in November 2023, when the show featured an unprecedented bi-regeneration storyline.

Throughout his time in the TARDIS, Ncuti was accompanied by two loyal companions, Ruby Sunday, played by Millie Gibson, and Belinda Chandra, portrayed by Varada Sethu.

His performance as the Doctor earned him numerous accolades, including a Best Actor award at the 2024 BAFTA Cymru Awards, as well as nominations for the BAFTA Scotland Audience Award for Favourite Scot on Screen, and Best Actor in a Drama Series at the 2025 Critics Choice Television Awards in the US.

At the end of tonight's instalment, Ncuti's Doctor regenerated into Billie Piper, who first appeared in the Whoniverse as much-loved companion Rose Tyler back in 2005.

Showrunner Russell T Davies shared his thoughts on the surprise twist, saying: "Billie once changed the whole of television, back in 2005, and now she's done it again!

"It's an honour and a hoot to welcome her back to the TARDIS, but quite how and why and who is a story yet to be told. After 62 years, the Doctor's adventures are only just beginning!"

Billie added: "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, but who, how, why and when, you'll just have to wait and see."

Following the finale, Doctor Who enthusiasts swiftly took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their sadness at Ncuti's departure, but were thrilled by Billie's comeback.

"In 18 episodes, 15 has become one of my all time favourite Doctors and I can't even begin to put into words how heartbroken I am that he's gone. I'm genuinely so devastated by it, I've not stopped crying for about 45 minutes," one individual penned.

Another chimed in: "I was beyond captivated by Ncuti and it meant the world to me for him to be The Doctor and so unapologetically himself. I'll miss him."

Regarding Billie's return, a third fan commented: "I'm actually here for this. I'm sorry to anyone who's not.. but this is MAD.. and I'm here for it, genuinely am here."

Doctor Who is available to stream on BBC iPlayer