Jodie Whittaker Says She Only Got Into Doctor Who When It Was Brought Back

Doctor Who is about to undergo a major change, both in front of the camera and behind it. Last month, it was announced that, for the first time in the show’s 54 year history, the Doctor would next be played by a woman – namely, actress Jodie Whittaker. It’s a decision that’s sparked much controversy, and understandably so, but for the most part, people seem to be on board with it.

After all, change is a good thing and though we can see where the critics are coming from, we’re perfectly content with waiting until the actress makes her debut in the iconic role before rushing to judgement. That being said, it is a bit upsetting to learn that Whittaker isn’t as much of a fan of the sci-fi series as some of the other Doctors have been.

Whereas someone like Peter Capaldi was a lifelong Whovian before getting the job, Jodie only got into the show recently. Or at least, only when it was rebooted, which kicked off with Christopher Eccleston back in 2005. Speaking in a recent interview, Whittaker explained:

“I have to say, I only got more into it when it got brought back,” she said. “Even though I’m 35, I feel like for me, my interest sparked with Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant and Matt Smith and I feel kind of a part of that as well. Thats what feels exciting about it, like you can list these 13 actors and none of us are similar. Even when it’s been 12 men, none of us are similar.”

Of course, just because Jodie didn’t grow up watching the show like Capaldi did, that doesn’t mean she’ll give a less compelling or enjoyable performance as the Doctor, but seeing Peter, or even David Tennant, in the role, you could really tell they both had a deep, strong love for the series and that was something which helped define their eras. But again, this is no reason to write off Whittaker and at the end of the day, it may even help her give a more unique and fresh take on the character.

We’ll see if that’s indeed the case when we get out first look at her in the role in this year’s Doctor Who Christmas special, which will see Capaldi pass the baton (well, sonic screwdriver) onto the actress. Her first full season in charge is then likely to air in autumn 2018, at which point she’ll really get to show us what she can do in the part.