Ever since Jodie Whittaker was announced as the Thirteenth Doctor back in July, Doctor Who fans have been dying to find out more about this new incarnation of the show. Now, we finally have all the juicy details thanks to a press release straight from the BBC.
First up, we can tell you who’ll be joining Whittaker in the TARDIS. Yes, it turns out that those earlier rumours were right and British comedian Bradley Walsh is stepping on board the time machine as the Doctor’s latest companion. Apparently, he’ll be playing a character named Graham.
The twist is, though, that the Doctor and Graham will have two other friends joining them on their travels. Tosin Cole and Mandip Gill (both previously seen in British soap opera Hollyoaks) are signing up for regular roles on the sci-fi show. Cole will be playing Ryan while Gill will take on the part of Yasmin.
The first photo of the newly assembled TARDIS team was shared on the Doctor Who Twitter account and can be seen below:
Alongside those three new names, it’s also been revealed that Sharon D. Clarke (Holby City) is joining Doctor Who in what’s being described as a “returning role.” This suggests that she could be be playing a villainous character or perhaps an occasional ally to the Doctor.
Incoming showrunner Chris Chibnall had this to say on his new cast:
“The new Doctor is going to need new friends. We’re thrilled to welcome Mandip, Tosin and Bradley to the Doctor Who family. They’re three of Britain’s brightest talents and we can’t wait to see them dive into brand new adventures with Jodie’s Doctor. Alongside them, we’re delighted that Sharon D Clarke is also joining the show.”
Meanwhile, the new Doctor herself, Jodie Whittaker, said:
“I am so excited to share this huge adventure with Mandip, Tosin and Bradley. It’s a dream team!”
Next up, Bradley Walsh proved his Whovian credentials with a look back at his long history with Doctor Who:
“I remember watching William Hartnell as the first Doctor. Black and white made it very scary for a youngster like myself. I was petrified but even though I’d watch most of it from behind the sofa through my fingers, I became a fan. I then queued up for ages to get into the Carlton picture house in Watford to watch the great Peter Cushing appear as the Doctor in a full length feature film made in glorious colour. Am I thrilled to be part of this whole ground breaking new dawn for the Doctor?? Oh yes!”
Mandip Gill added:
“I am over the moon to be joining the Doctor Who family. This is an iconic show with an amazing fanbase and I look forward to everything that brings. Certain roles seem unattainable and this is one of those, so much so I didn’t believe it to be true for the first few weeks. To be working alongside the likes of Jodie, Bradley and my old friend Tosin is thrilling. This show is worlds away from the work I’ve done previously and that’s the part that excites me the most.”
Last but not least, Tosin Cole wrapped things up by saying:
“I’m grateful and excited to be a part of this journey with the team. I’m looking forward to jumping in this Doctor Who universe.”
Doctor Who returns at Christmas time for Peter Capaldi’s final episode. Jodie Whittaker and friends will then make their debuts proper in season 11, which is expected to materialize next autumn.
