Doctor Who's new series premiere date announced amid speculation over Ncuti Gatwa's departure

The BBC has announced that Ncuti Gatwa's second series as the Fifteenth Doctor will premiere on April 12, 2025, despite reports suggesting he may leave the show. Millie Gibson will return as Ruby Sunday, and a new companion will join. The announcement was made during a rugby match, which confused fans about the choice of platform. Reports indicate Gatwa has filmed his exit scene, and speculation about his replacement has begun, with Josh O'Connor being a leading candidate. The BBC denied claims that Doctor Who is being shelved, stating that decisions about future seasons will be made after the second series airs. Gatwa, the first Black actor in the role, is reportedly planning to move to Los Angeles for other projects.