The BBC has firmly denied rumors suggesting that Doctor Who and its lead star, Ncuti Gatwa, are facing cancellation due to alleged “wokery” in its storylines. The broadcaster called recent tabloid reports “incorrect,” dismissing claims that the long-running sci-fi series is in danger of being axed.
The speculation arose following an article published by The Sun on 17 February, which claimed that Gatwa, who made his debut as the 15th Doctor in December 2023, was planning to quit the show after two seasons. The report also suggested that fans were upset over the inclusion of progressive themes in the storylines, which it referred to as “wokery.”
Despite these claims, the BBC emphasized that Doctor Who remains a key part of its programming. In response to the article, a BBC spokesperson said: “This story is incorrect, Doctor Who has not been shelved. As we have previously stated, the decision on season 3 will be made after season 2 airs. The deal with Disney+ was for 26 episodes, and exactly half of those still have to transmit. And as for the rest, we never comment on the Doctor and future storylines.”
In the most recent ‘Doctor Who’ series, Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor shared a kiss with Jonathan Groff’s character, Rogue. Photo: BCC/Disney
The tabloid article also asserted that the show was facing “abysmal ratings” and that there was backlash regarding the show’s inclusive themes, despite Doctor Who’s longstanding commitment to showcasing queer and diverse storylines. However, in an interview from 2024, the BBC revealed that Doctor Who remains one of the most-watched programs on the BBC iPlayer, and the show continues to be the top drama for viewers under 35.
Gatwa’s Resilience Amid Backlash
Gatwa, 32, has faced some vocal criticism since assuming the role of the Doctor. In particular, some fans have expressed disappointment with the series’ emphasis on inclusivity, a feature that has been a part of the show’s DNA long before Gatwa’s tenure. However, the actor, who made history as the first Black and openly queer Doctor, has been open about his experience with both support and backlash.
Despite facing homophobic and racist attacks, Gatwa has consistently praised the warmth and love he has received from fans, sharing how they’ve made him feel embraced by the Doctor Who community.
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“I wouldn’t be the only Black lead that’s taken over a sci-fi franchise that would have received that sort of treatment,” Gatwa told Vanity Fair in November 2024. “Unfortunately, those are voices that exist in sci-fi fandoms – but they’re not the only voices.”
Gatwa further described how Doctor Who fans have made him feel like part of a “big nerd family” since stepping into the role. He highlighted how, even during difficult circumstances—such as shooting in extreme weather conditions—there are always dedicated fans waiting outside the studio.
“I just remember feeling a lot of warmth and love, being embraced into a big nerd family. When we’re shooting Doctor Who, there are fans outside the studio or on location every single time, be it at 4am, be it minus-12 degrees,” he said.
Looking Past the Negativity
While acknowledging that racism and homophobia are still real issues, Gatwa expressed his focus on the positives that have come from his time on Doctor Who. He’s used to navigating criticism, but he chooses to concentrate on the love and support that surrounds him.
“I don’t want to invalidate the very real thing that is racism, homophobia. I don’t act as if they don’t exist or they don’t affect me. They do. But I try to pay it no mind and look at the many, many positives that came from joining the Whoniverse,” Gatwa said.
The actor’s resilience and positivity seem to be paying off, as Doctor Who continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its inclusive storytelling and bold new direction under Gatwa’s leadership. The show remains a symbol of diversity, creativity, and inclusion, resonating with a new generation of viewers.
As the BBC continues to champion Doctor Who and its future, fans can look forward to more thrilling adventures with Gatwa as the Doctor, exploring new stories, characters, and galaxies.
