Jodie Whittaker will leave Doctor Who , the world’s longest-running science fiction series , in the autumn of 2022 , the BBC confirmed on Thursday.
It has been rumored for some time that Whittaker, who plays the lead in the series, would leave. Recently, stories circulated that Years & Years singer Olly Alexander would take over the title role from her, but were denied by his spokesperson .
“I will forever carry the Doctor (the role played by the actress, ed.) and the lessons I have learned,” Whittaker said in a statement. Not only the actress, but also showrunner Chris Chibnall is leaving. He was the one who nominated Whittaker for the lead role, which she took over from Peter Capaldi.
Doctor Who has been running since 1963, making it the longest-running science fiction series in the world. The series revolves around the time traveler the Doctor. The role has already been played by thirteen different actors. Whittaker had been on the series since 2017 and was the first woman to play the lead role.