'Doctor Who' Reveals The New Doctor's Companion

The transitions between Doctor Who's titular characters as they regenerate are often bumpy, even when the circumstances are typical. But there's nothing ordinary about the latest changeover from Jodie Whittaker's 13th Doctor to Ncuti Gatwa, who at this point seems to be destined to be the 15th Doctor. There are many behind-the-scenes changes, from BBC studios to Bad Wolf and the now-majority ownership by Sony Television, plus moving house to Disney+ over here in the states. However, showrunner Russell Davies has thrown in an extra twist, bringing back David Tennant, not to reprise his 10th Doctor but to play "The 14th Doctor" in a series of 60th-anniversary specials.

It's all a bit distracting and didn't do much for Whittaker's exit, which was massively overshadowed by Davies coming in and doing a not-quite-hostile wholesale takeover of the franchise. It's also not done Gatwa much good either, as his casting, which is historic in multiple ways, has been drowned out by Tennant's return, the disruption of the Doctor count (Gatwa was initially billed as the 14th Doctor, now he's being referred to as the 15th) and the multiple anniversary specials.

However, as filming ramps up for the post-anniversary Season 14, some of the focus is returning to the new cast of the series and those destined to become known for their time in the blue box. Initially, Davies revealed Yasmin Finney (Heartstopper) as the new companion, whose name is once again Rose. Viewers initially assumed Finney was meant for both the 60th anniversary and beyond. But with three specials, which Gatwa may not be a significant part of, it seems her time is Tennant-based. The actual companion paired with Gatwa will be Ruby Sunday, played by Millie Gibson (Coronation Street).