When the rumour first appeared, many were sceptical. Now it is confirmed. Doctor Who Goes To Disney+ in a new deal between the BBC and Disney Branded Television. Following Jodie Whittaker’s last episode of Doctor Who, The Power of The Doctor, plans for the future are underway. We are already aware of David Tennant returning for the upcoming 60th Anniversary. Additionally, we have the 15th Doctor of Ncuti Gatwa taking the helm in late 2023. All this under returning showrunner Russell T Davies.
The BBC will still broadcast Doctor Who in the UK and Ireland. At the same time, International markets can watch the program via Disney+, the streaming service. The service is accessible in more than 150 markets around the world. The new episodes will premiere on the BBC and Disney+ in late 2023 for fans worldwide. Currently, we look forward to the return of Tennant and Catherine Tate for the three special episodes of Doctor Who.
The House of The Mouse Is Time Traveling
This is a rather unique partnership. The goal is to turn Doctor Who into a global franchise for UK audiences and the world. In the age of so many media franchise giants, this was clearly on the minds of BBC executives for some time now. Disney+ is being touted as the “exclusive home for new seasons of Doctor Who outside the UK and Ireland”. Incoming Doctor Who actor, Ncuti Gatwa, made the announcement this morning. He appeared on LIVE with Kelly and Ryan.
Both partners have aligned under returning showrunner Russell T Davies’ bold vision, who takes control of the TARDIS in 2023. He was responsible for Doctor Who’s revival in 2005 and is credited with propelling the show into one of TV’s biggest hits. Davies had the following to say:
“I love this show, and this is the best of both worlds – with the vision and joy of the BBC and Disney+ together we can launch the TARDIS all around the planet, reaching a new generation of fans while keeping our traditional home firmly on the BBC in the UK.”
Russell T Davies via The BBC
Charlotte Moore, who serves as the BBC’s Chief Content Officer, said the following:
“We are thrilled to announce this exciting global partnership with Disney who are the perfect partners to bring this very British show to the rest of the world. Russell T Davies’ vision for Doctor Who has always been out of this world and we are committed to ensuring that audiences across the globe get the opportunity to enjoy the Doctor’s epic adventures with the scale and ambition that they deserve. Joining forces with Disney will elevate the show to even greater heights and reach new audiences so it’s an extremely exciting time for fans in the UK and across the world.”
Charlotte Moore, BBC’s Chief Content Officer – Via The BBC
A Smart Move
Disney will be very excited about this. It gives their platform content outside of their own original work. An entire new Sci-Fi franchise that isn’t Star Wars or something connected to Marvel. Given the uniqueness and long history of Doctor Who, it will also come with a returning audience. Many fans outside of the UK and Ireland have struggled to access Doctor Who. Simulcasting has also been an issue in the psst.
We’re excited by the opportunity to bring new seasons of this beloved franchise exclusively to Disney+ and introduce the show to the next generation of audiences in more than 150 markets around the world. The series is a perfect addition to our ever-growing catalog of global content that continues to make Disney+ the home for exceptional storytelling.”
Alisa Bowen, President of Disney+
“Doctor Who has captivated the imaginations of families around the world for the past six decades. We are so excited about this collaboration with the BBC, and the opportunity to bring this iconic franchise – and Russell T Davies’ brilliant vision – to life for a huge new global audience. Grab your sonic screwdrivers and prepare to travel through time and space!”
Ayo Davis, President, Disney Branded Television
Bad Wolf produces Doctor Who with BBC Studios Productions. As such, the Co-founders had something to say. Both Jane Tranter and Jule Gardner also serve as Executive Producers of Doctor Who, alongside Showrunner Russell T Davies.
“For Doctor Who to have the backing of two of the most innovative and respected media organizations in the world is a testament to the unique drive and vision at the heart of this show. Bad Wolf are beyond delighted to be once again working with the genius that is Russell T Davies and, with the exciting new partnership between the BBC and Disney, we can together reach to even greater heights, producing from Wolf Studios Wales ambitious stories through time and space for audiences across the globe.”
Jane Tranter & Julie Gardner, Executive Producers and Co-founders, Bad Wolf
Our Analysis
This is a good move for the BBC. It’s also a very strategic one for Disney+. Doctor Who needs to evolve as a franchise if it wants to survive, among others. When we look at the overall media space right now, it’s packed. Disney+ has its giants of Marvel and Star Wars. Paramount+ has Star Trek. All of these franchises have gone global with ease. However, with Doctor Who being a British program, it’s struggled to break out into international markets in the past.
This is the BBC establishing Doctor Who as a global brand. It was originally suggested this path might be the direction they go in, following Bad Wolf taking over creative control of Doctor Who. Disney+ has over 150 Million users as of July 2022. Therefore this is the perfect opportunity to introduce a whole new audience to the world of Doctor Who. Further amplifying the franchise beyond the 60th Anniversary specials. Additionally, it also sets up Ncuti Gatwa to have a big launch as the 15th Doctor.
As we’re looking at a “global franchise”, you’ve got to wonder how long before we see spin-off shows in development again. Star Wars is no longer just a movie. Disney+ has pioneered the new series of The Mandalorian and Andor. While at one point, Doctor Who did something similar. A spin-off show about “Torchwood” and “The Sarah Jane Adventures”. How long before we get the River Song show I so desperately need in my life?
Conclusion
A new Doctor Who logo was released today. This marks a nice blend of modern with a classic twist. Eagle-eyes fans of Doctor Who, who follow Tardis Central, might have noticed the concept come online earlier this month. New episodes of Doctor Who will air in November 2023 as the franchise celebrates its 60th Anniversary. Nucti Gatwa will take over the Tardis helm in late 2023 to begin Series 14. For now, we await further news of the ever-expanding world of Doctor Who.
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