As one of Britain's biggest cultural exports, Doctor Who is a long-running series with a lot of money, time, and star power poured into it year after year. The science-fiction show is a storied classic that goes back to 1963, and the latest version of the show is still going strong. That said, it seems the current Doctor may be exiting the project soon.
Most are likely aware of the show's basic premise: The Doctor is what the show calls a "Time Lord." As a Time Lord, the Doctor has the ability to travel throughout time to various locations and events, getting involved in all sorts of science-fiction adventure. While the Doctor's deeper motivations and drive vary from version to version, they generally bounce around the universe exploring time and battling injustice wherever they encounter it, typically with some sort of companion by their side.
Of course, a show that has been going on for 50+ years can't have the same actors around forever, and so a solution was invented: Each incarnation of the Doctor eventually undergoes a "Regeneration." This special ability allows the Doctor to take on a new physical form and slightly altered personality after an event that would have normally killed them. This is typically used to allow the role of the Doctor to be passed to a new actor, and the latest reincarnation saw the torch passed to Jodie Whittaker.
Since then Whittaker has played the first female incarnation of the Doctor for two full seasons, with her third season currently in the process of being filmed. According to Nicola Methven of The Daily Mail, however, she is planning to leave the role after the current season is finished.
As of right now, there has been no official words from the BBC about casting a new Doctor, or if Whittaker is truly leaving. The Daily Mail cites sources indicating that the BBC is keeping things quiet, but that those on set are aware that Whittaker plans to depart the show, and they are gearing up for another regeneration, which will require the next Doctor to be cast.
The BBC had nothing to say on the matter, stating: “We won’t be commenting on any speculation around Jodie’s future on the show.” If the rumor is true though, it would fit with the typical tradition of an actor playing the Doctor for three seasons and then departing for other projects. Presumably more news will begin to trickle out of the BBC as filming begins to wrap on the latest season.
Source: Deadline