Incoming showrunner Chris Chibnall has recalled the moment when he broke news of Jodie Whittaker’s Doctor Who casting to former Time Lord, Peter Capaldi. And it seems the 12th Doctor reacted as expected: with humility, grace and a little laughter.
Chatting to Doctor Who Magazine (h/t Radio Times), Chibnall touched base on season 11 (ETA: October 2018) before circling back to Capaldi’s heartfelt reaction to the news that Jodie Whittaker, star of Broadchurch and Attack the Block, was about to become his successor.
We set a time, I call him, and as he picks up the phone the first thing he does is giggle, delighted by the madness around it all. I tell him the name. He is generous and gentlemanly, of course: ‘Well, she’s a fabulous actor.’ he says.
Capaldi wasted no time in reaching out to Jodie Whittaker, either, and asked Chibnall that he be put in touch with the newfound Doctor Who not only to congratulate her, but to also offer some advice of his own when it comes to headlining the time-honored BBC drama.
He asks if it will be all right to call Jodie and I put them in touch, one Doctor to the next. Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker’s work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm. She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She’s going to be a fantastic Doctor.
Having made her initial debut during last year’s festive special, Jodie Whittaker’s Time Lord is all set to light up the small screen this fall with Doctor Who season 11. The first teaser trailer has already escaped the TARDIS, and we’ll be bringing you all the latest as we approach that October premiere date.
