The BBC has officially cancelled the Doctor Who Christmas special, disappointing fans across the country. The announcement came earlier today (June 10) alongside confirmation that showrunner Russell T Davies is leaving the programme.
BBC Statement on the Cancellation
In a press release, the BBC stated: "After careful consideration, the BBC, Russell T Davies and Bad Wolf have collectively decided not to go ahead with the previously announced Doctor Who Christmas episode." The statement added: "This decision was not taken lightly, and we know it will be disappointing for fans, 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."
The BBC is now inviting production companies to submit bids to co-produce the next series of the hit show.
Russell T Davies Announces Departure
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Davies confirmed his exit alongside a picture of the TARDIS. He wrote: "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 explained that the Christmas special was only conceived to guarantee a future when no one knew what would happen. "But now we do know, there’s no need for it."
Davies addressed speculation about scripts and casting: "For the record: there was no script, I never wrote it, and no actor was ever approached to play the next Doctor." He added: "You may disagree; fine, sit in that chair and wait to be proved right. You’ll wait a lonnng time. Now I’m as excited as anyone to see what comes next!"
Future of the Show
Davies hinted at exciting possibilities: "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 @bbcdoctorwho ♥️."
The BBC release confirms that details of the tender will be announced "in due course."
