Ncuti Gatwa exits Doctor Who after two seasons
- Ncuti Gatwa's stunning exit as the 15th Doctor occurred during the season finale on May 31, 2025.
- Gatwa's regeneration has returned Billie Piper to the series, igniting questions about her role in the storyline.
- The transition marks a significant moment in the show's history, amidst ongoing conversations about its narrative approach and future.
In the realm of British science fiction, the beloved series Doctor Who has reached a significant turning point with the departure of Ncuti Gatwa from the lead role. This change occurred during the season finale which aired on May 31, 2025. Gatwa, who became the 15th Doctor, is noted for his historic tenure as the first Black actor in the role, though he was not the first Black character associated with the Doctor. His departure culminated in a dramatic regeneration scene, where his character transitioned to Billie Piper who is returning to the show as her old character, Rose Tyler. The final episode not only marked Gatwa’s exit but also reignited fan theories and discussions around Piper's role and the future direction of the series. Fans were surprised by the rapid regeneration, with some left questioning whether Piper would become the next Doctor or take on a different role entirely. The series has faced critique in recent years due to perceived focus on 'woke' narratives, which some viewers argue has contributed to declining ratings. This has led to speculation about the show's future, especially regarding its upcoming 16th season, since there has been no confirmation from BBC or Disney regarding the series' continuation.