Since he first appeared in Netflix’s Sex Education as the incredible Eric Effiong, it’s safe to say the world has fallen in love with Ncuti Gatwa. 

The Rwandan actor – who is set to star in Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Barbie movie – has gained a dedicated following for his portrayal of the openly gay British teen, and created a lot of (well-deserved) hype when he took on the biggest role of his career as the 14th Doctor Who earlier this year.

But amid all the excitement, more news has emerged. It seems that it won’t be long at all until he steps into the TARDIS. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Gatwa will begin filming the next season of Doctor Who for the BBC this November. 

At least one more special episode is due to be broadcast in late 2023 to mark the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who (which THR has speculated could be as many as three episodes), with previous Time Lord David Tennant returning to reprise his role. However, recent comments by Neil Patrick Harris (who is also appearing in the special)  have led to speculation that Gatwa will indeed appear in 2023’s celebrations, a move that could see Tennant’s incarnation of the Doctor regenerate into Gatwa’s. 

Details about the special are unsurprisingly being kept tightly under wraps by the BBC, but we do know that Gatwa’s first full series as the Doctor — filming in November — will follow the anniversary special and is therefore unlikely to hit screens until 2024.

But Sex Education fans can rest easy. After rumours of filming clashes after a string of cast exits, earlier this month it was confirmed that Gatwa will reprise his role for season four.

Upon the announcemnt that he was to become the 14th Doctor, Gatwa said: “There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared. 

“This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care. I will endeavour my upmost to do the same.”

“Russell T Davies is almost as iconic as the Doctor himself and being able to work with him is a dream come true. His writing is dynamic, exciting, incredibly intelligent and fizzing with danger. An actor’s metaphorical playground.”

Gatwa continued: “The entire team has been so welcoming and truly give their hearts to the show. And so as much as it’s daunting, I’m aware I’m joining a really supportive family. Unlike the Doctor, I may only have one heart but I am giving it all to this show.”

Gatwa will join the popular BBC science fiction show as the 14th doctor – taking over from Jodie Whittaker, who joined the show in 2017 as the first female doctor. 

Davies – who is returning as the programme’s showrunner after departing back in 2009 – said Gatwa “dazzled” during his audition.

“The future is here and it’s Ncuti!” he said. “Sometimes talent walks through the door and it’s so bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand back in awe and thank my lucky stars. Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds.

“It’s an honour to work with him, and a hoot, I can’t wait to get started. I’m sure you’re dying to know more, but we’re rationing ourselves for now, with the wonderful Jodie’s epic finale yet to come. But I promise you, 2023 will be spectacular!” 

Images: Getty/Netflix