The trailer for Ncuti Gatwa’s full debut as the Fifteenth Doctor in the upcoming Doctor Who Christmas Special, titled “The Church on Ruby Road,” has been released by the BBC. This follows the conclusion of Doctor Who Special 3, “The Giggle,” where the Fourteenth Doctor regenerated into the Fifteenth Doctor. Scheduled to air on Christmas Day on the BBC and Disney+, the trailer features the Fifteenth Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) meeting his new companion, Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson), and subsequently being abducted by goblin space pirates.
“The Church on Ruby Road” marks the return of the Doctor Who Christmas special, a tradition reinstated by the returning showrunner Russell T Davies. The episode is the first Christmas special since 2017, as the previous showrunner, Chris Chibnall, had moved it to New Year’s Day. Davies, who is writing the episode, expressed his excitement, stating, “For the first time, I’m writing a Christmas Special… at Christmas!” He also confirmed plans for Christmas Specials in 2023 and 2024.
When will Ncuti Gatwa debut on Doctor Who?
Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor is set to make an appearance in the three Doctor Who 60th-anniversary specials before taking on the lead role in the Christmas Special, which will also mark Millie Gibson’s debut as Ruby. Upon the announcement of her casting in Doctor Who, Gibson expressed her immense honor, stating, “Whilst still being in total disbelief, I am beyond honored to be cast as the Doctor’s companion.” She described the role as a gift and a dream come true, pledging to give her all to fill the boots of the companions who came before her. Gatwa, excited about working alongside Gibson, praised her as the perfect companion, citing her talent, strength, and captivating presence. He expressed eagerness for the wild and fun adventure that awaits as they embark on a journey through the universe together.
What is the 2023 Doctor Who Holiday Special?
After David Tennant’s portrayal as the Fourteenth Doctor in three 60th-anniversary specials of Doctor Who, the Holiday Special featuring Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson in “The Church on Ruby Road” will set the stage for the new season. This upcoming season is set to premiere on Disney+ in 2024, with filming already completed. Following this, Gatwa and Gibson are expected to return for their second season of Doctor Who, currently in production and likely to air in 2025.
Source: Comic Book
