Doctor Who boss promises finale will address 'controversial' Time Lord change
Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies has promised that the upcoming finale will address the 'controversial' Time Lord change.
Two years ago, fans of the sci-fi series were left perplexed after Ncuti Gatwa took over the iconic role from David Tennant in a way that broke away from a long-held Time Lord tradition.
The Sex Education star bi-generated into the Fifteenth Doctor in the 60th anniversary special, titled 'The Giggle', drawing heavy criticism from large portions of the Doctor Who fanbase.
Now, however, ahead of the season 15 finale 'The Reality War' on Saturday night, the show's writer Russell has reassured fans that the form of regeneration will be explained.
After posting a selfie from inside the Bone Palace, @varax89 asked him: 'There will be an explanation for bigeneration?'
Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro's TV Newsletter.
Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we'll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you.
Russell then replied: '@varax89 actually, yes! 👍'
Responding to the exchange on Instagram, several Reddit users shared their concerns over the potential reveal.
Discussing Russell's writing, JOhn101010101 said: 'Oh no. His explanations don't have a tendency to actually explain too much.'
tickofaclock added: 'Whenever 15 leaves, I just really, really hope he regenerates in a normal way. I don't mind bigeneration as a couple of special one-offs, but I really don't want it to be the new normal.'
Doctor Who is an ever-evolving show with constant change literally woven into its very fabric so Whovians often roll with the wild twists, turns and wacky experiments played out by the showrunners to push the 60-year-old show to its limits – and often past it.
Nowhere is that clearer than with the bold concept of bi-generation which was introduced in the 60th anniversary special. As shown during 14th Doctor David Tennant's regeneration, instead of the usual complete transformation of one Doctor into the next, bi-generation spliced Ncuti Gatwa's 15th Doctor out of him so both could exist at one time.
Look, there are no boundaries when it comes to sci-fi, especially when it comes to the physiology and life cycle of a fictional alien race with two hearts. But some things feel like they should remain sacred and the poetic nature of the Doctor's regeneration – saying a final good bye to one (unless you are David Tennant) and welcoming in another is at the beating heart of the series and the emotional punch is heavily dampened by knowing they end up just pointlessly kicking about while the next Doctor goes on his adventures.
Now the concept has been doubled down on with The Rani's bi-generation, I can only hope the whole affair is put to a rest with the end of this season as a fun but short-lived experiment.
Tevcon01 also wrote: 'Having bigeneration for the 14th doctor is one thing but saying that everyone did is just nonsense. Why would 10 and 12 struggle so much if they just exist after the regeneration.'
Meanwhile, J-McFox proposed: 'It's just going to be the Rani saying she worked out the science behind the myth so it's possible now.'
Following the release of season 15's penultimate episode last week, Doctor Who fans are convinced they know what Rani is up to.
The seventh episode, Wish World, saw the bigenerated Rani (played by Anita Dobson and Archi Punjabi) reveal themselves to a disorientated Doctor.
The dastardly Rani plans to dig beneath the surface of this reality to find Omega, an all-powerful entity from olde worldy Time Lord history.
In trying to jog the Doctor's memory after his humdrum suburban fugue state, Reya explained: 'We are the last Time Lord and the last Time Lady from the planet Gallifrey.' More Trending
She also added: 'The tragedy is we were never enemies. Every villain you ever fought wanted death. I only wanted life. Remember?'
This wrinkle has left many fans wondering if the Rani might be out to resurrect Gallifrey and the Time Lords, instead of the classic laying waste MO we get from most villains.
Ardent Whovians immediately sprung on Reddit to theorise what it might all mean. @Grafikpapst wrote: 'She wants to bring the Time Lords back. He is the scientist that created the Time Lords. He is also the greatest mind Gallifrey ever had, so The Rani is probably a very big fan, seeing as she too is a scientist at heart.'
View More »
Doctor Who is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Got a story?
If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you.
MORE: Yet another celebrity discovers they're related to a king 9 years after Danny Dyer
MORE: 'Humanising trans people is so important right now – our BBC series does that'
MORE: Gary Lineker breaks 26-year streak with mistake on final Match of the Day
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scotsman
18 minutes ago
- Scotsman
Parklife 2025: Could these acts join this year's performers for a secret appearance?
Our round up of murmurings from Reddit and social media ahead of this year's Parklife event in Manchester. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Could Charli XCX be joined by New Zealand royalty at Heaton Park, or could a French dynamic duo collaborate with her once again? Who could be one of the DJs in the VIP stage and could they become the next UK prime minister? Here are your last minute-rumours ahead of Parklife 2025 this weekend in Manchester Forget Glastonbury Festival rumours for one week (please!), as we look to the more immediate future: Parklife 2025 in Manchester this week. While there's still guesswork involved who might be Patchwork and who else might fill those TBA slots at Worthy Farm, things seem a little less speculative when it comes to this weekend's event at Heaton Park, with the full timetable now available through the official Parklife app. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad That doesn't mean there won't be any surprises this year, though. Instead of solely looking at secret sets, we've taken a look through Reddit and the depths of social media to see who people think might make a guest appearance at Parklife this year. Be it Lorde or French house icons teaming up with a 'brat,' or a guerrilla gig potentially before or after what will be an incredibly lively set, here's five rumours currently doing the rounds before festival-goers converge on Manchester this weekend Last minute Parklife 2025 rumours From who could guest with Charli XCX to who might play a guerrilla gig this weekend; here's a round up of the last minute rumours for Parklife 2025. | Getty Images Will Lorde or Air join Charli XCX this weekend? There has been increased speculation that New Zealand musician Lorde could make a surprise appearance during Charli XCX's set. The singer, on the brink of releasing her brand new album, Virgin, has featured regularly alongside Charli XCX in recent months, thanks to their stunning collaborative effort Girl, So Confusing . Lorde was even seen on stage during both of the BRAT performer's Coachella 2025 sets in April. Given their recent proximity and obvious chemistry, a repeat performance in Manchester is high on many fans' wish lists. Lorde is due to play a full UK tour in November 2025, but a quick pop-up this weekend isn't out of the question for a collaborator. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad But could an appearance by French dance giants Air be on the cards too? Charli XCX famously performed with the duo in Paris during their June 8, 2025 show. With Air's next tour date taking place in Dublin on June 17, 2025 – just two days after Parklife – a quick journey across the Irish Sea could certainly be in order for a surprise cameo. Who could perform alongside 50 Cent as he returns to the United Kingdom? Though wishful thinking means some hope either Eminem or Dr. Dre makes an appearance at Parklife 2025, there are still members of 50 Cent's G-Unit who could make the trip to appear on stage with him. The name Tony Yayo frequently gets mentioned, owing to him being the most consistent member of G-Unit alongside 50 Cent and having regularly appeared with the rapper. However, some think another core member, Lloyd Banks , could also be a guest during the set. Neither artist currently has independent tour dates scheduled, and if Fiddy is bringing any of the crew, those two names are highly probable. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Could Jora Smith bring on a who's who of UK rap icons? Jorja Smith's soulful R&B often blends seamlessly with the UK's vibrant rap and grime scenes. Fans are hoping she might invite some of her esteemed collaborators to share the stage. A top contender is Loyle Carner , with whom she released the acclaimed Loose Ends, and a joint performance would be a smooth and well-received addition to her set. What's more, there's significant buzz around AJ Tracey . The pair just reunited for their brand new single Crush in February 2025, and their chemistry is undeniable – a surprise live rendition of this fresh track would send the crowd wild. While a cameo from giants like Stormzy would be truly monumental, such high-profile appearances are often closely guarded secrets, and a full "who's who" might be as wishful as some of the wildest 50 Cent reunion rumours. However, with Jorja's extensive network of influential UK artists, her set remains a hotbed for potential unexpected collaborations. With a history of guerrilla gigs, will Loopdaddy take to the streets of Manchester? One of the highlights I'll be missing out on could potentially sneak a set on the streets of Manchester this weekend. We're talking about Loopdaddy himself, Marc Rebillet. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Given his official festival slot at Parklife in Manchester, it wouldn't be out of character for the incredibly fun producer to set up a quick, unannounced performance in a public space before or after his main set. Perhaps a quick gig at Victoria or Piccadilly Station could be something fans traveling to the event might spot? Guest DJs on the VIP Stage; is Andy Burnham about to spin the decks? Official Parklife information often explicitly mentions 'VIP DJs and special guests playing on the VIP stage, which is separate from the rest of the festival.' There's also the new Backstage Ticket which grants 'on-stage access at The Hangar stage' and access to 'exclusive VIP area with luxury loos, charging points, and a street food market and VIP cocktail bar.' While not a 'secret' headliner per se, this does pose a unique opportunity for some very important people to step into the DJ booth and lay on some tunes for those with the privilege to be there – and of all the names we've mentioned, why not add Andy Burnham as one of those potential guest DJs? Known for his own occasional DJ sets at local venues, it's not entirely out of the question for Burnham to pop up for a quick, unannounced turn on the decks. Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was well-known in Auckland for getting behind the decks before standing in front of the world as the then-leader of Aotearoa Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Do you have an event you'd like to share with us? You can now promote your What's On stories to us online via YourWorld at It's free to use and, once checked, your story will appear on our website and, space allowing, in our newspapers.
Scotsman
18 minutes ago
- Scotsman
Parklife 2025: Could these acts join this year's performers for a secret appearance?
Our round up of murmurings from Reddit and social media ahead of this year's Parklife event in Manchester. Sign up to our Arts and Culture newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Could Charli XCX be joined by New Zealand royalty at Heaton Park, or could a French dynamic duo collaborate with her once again? Who could be one of the DJs in the VIP stage and could they become the next UK prime minister? Here are your last minute-rumours ahead of Parklife 2025 this weekend in Manchester Forget Glastonbury Festival rumours for one week (please!), as we look to the more immediate future: Parklife 2025 in Manchester this week. While there's still guesswork involved who might be Patchwork and who else might fill those TBA slots at Worthy Farm, things seem a little less speculative when it comes to this weekend's event at Heaton Park, with the full timetable now available through the official Parklife app. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad That doesn't mean there won't be any surprises this year, though. Instead of solely looking at secret sets, we've taken a look through Reddit and the depths of social media to see who people think might make a guest appearance at Parklife this year. Be it Lorde or French house icons teaming up with a 'brat,' or a guerrilla gig potentially before or after what will be an incredibly lively set, here's five rumours currently doing the rounds before festival-goers converge on Manchester this weekend Last minute Parklife 2025 rumours From who could guest with Charli XCX to who might play a guerrilla gig this weekend; here's a round up of the last minute rumours for Parklife 2025. | Getty Images Will Lorde or Air join Charli XCX this weekend? There has been increased speculation that New Zealand musician Lorde could make a surprise appearance during Charli XCX's set. The singer, on the brink of releasing her brand new album, Virgin, has featured regularly alongside Charli XCX in recent months, thanks to their stunning collaborative effort Girl, So Confusing . Lorde was even seen on stage during both of the BRAT performer's Coachella 2025 sets in April. Given their recent proximity and obvious chemistry, a repeat performance in Manchester is high on many fans' wish lists. Lorde is due to play a full UK tour in November 2025, but a quick pop-up this weekend isn't out of the question for a collaborator. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad But could an appearance by French dance giants Air be on the cards too? Charli XCX famously performed with the duo in Paris during their June 8, 2025 show. With Air's next tour date taking place in Dublin on June 17, 2025 – just two days after Parklife – a quick journey across the Irish Sea could certainly be in order for a surprise cameo. Who could perform alongside 50 Cent as he returns to the United Kingdom? Though wishful thinking means some hope either Eminem or Dr. Dre makes an appearance at Parklife 2025, there are still members of 50 Cent's G-Unit who could make the trip to appear on stage with him. The name Tony Yayo frequently gets mentioned, owing to him being the most consistent member of G-Unit alongside 50 Cent and having regularly appeared with the rapper. However, some think another core member, Lloyd Banks , could also be a guest during the set. Neither artist currently has independent tour dates scheduled, and if Fiddy is bringing any of the crew, those two names are highly probable. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Could Jora Smith bring on a who's who of UK rap icons? Jorja Smith's soulful R&B often blends seamlessly with the UK's vibrant rap and grime scenes. Fans are hoping she might invite some of her esteemed collaborators to share the stage. A top contender is Loyle Carner , with whom she released the acclaimed Loose Ends, and a joint performance would be a smooth and well-received addition to her set. What's more, there's significant buzz around AJ Tracey . The pair just reunited for their brand new single Crush in February 2025, and their chemistry is undeniable – a surprise live rendition of this fresh track would send the crowd wild. While a cameo from giants like Stormzy would be truly monumental, such high-profile appearances are often closely guarded secrets, and a full "who's who" might be as wishful as some of the wildest 50 Cent reunion rumours. However, with Jorja's extensive network of influential UK artists, her set remains a hotbed for potential unexpected collaborations. With a history of guerrilla gigs, will Loopdaddy take to the streets of Manchester? One of the highlights I'll be missing out on could potentially sneak a set on the streets of Manchester this weekend. We're talking about Loopdaddy himself, Marc Rebillet. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Given his official festival slot at Parklife in Manchester, it wouldn't be out of character for the incredibly fun producer to set up a quick, unannounced performance in a public space before or after his main set. Perhaps a quick gig at Victoria or Piccadilly Station could be something fans traveling to the event might spot? Guest DJs on the VIP Stage; is Andy Burnham about to spin the decks? Official Parklife information often explicitly mentions 'VIP DJs and special guests playing on the VIP stage, which is separate from the rest of the festival.' There's also the new Backstage Ticket which grants 'on-stage access at The Hangar stage' and access to 'exclusive VIP area with luxury loos, charging points, and a street food market and VIP cocktail bar.' While not a 'secret' headliner per se, this does pose a unique opportunity for some very important people to step into the DJ booth and lay on some tunes for those with the privilege to be there – and of all the names we've mentioned, why not add Andy Burnham as one of those potential guest DJs? Known for his own occasional DJ sets at local venues, it's not entirely out of the question for Burnham to pop up for a quick, unannounced turn on the decks. Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was well-known in Auckland for getting behind the decks before standing in front of the world as the then-leader of Aotearoa Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad
Metro
an hour ago
- Metro
WWE fans 'in tears' over beloved star's powerful transformation on Raw
WWE fans couldn't help but get emotional watching R-Truth transform into Ron Killings before their very eyes on Monday Night Raw. For almost two decades, the former United States Champion has largely been a comedy act, beloved by fans but never getting too serious in the ring. Of course, fans of TNA Wrestling know all too well what he can do from his time as world champ under his real name. Now, it's time for WWE fans to get caught up, as Truth – who revealed just over a week ago he had been told by bosses he would be released when his contact expired – completed a remarkable turnaround. Viewers' voices were heard, the decision was reversed, and the fan favourite was brought back in an unbelievable way at Money In The Bank over the weekend. Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro's TV Newsletter. Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we'll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you. Just 48 hours later on Raw, Truth cut a fiery promo on the commentary desk, before pulling out a pair of scissors and cutting off his dreadlocks. 'Bro I got chills watching that promo 🥶 Truth cutting his hair got me shocked also 😱 R-Truth is gone and Ron Killings has arrived 🔥#WWERaw,' wrote @Ossnips on X. 'R-Truth cutting his hair elevated the whole thing. He proved his conviction. Every word he spoke meant more,' @NamasteWestli1, as @zeevee admitted: 'Truth got me in tears right now. I'm on the floor. 'R-Truth is gone but Ron Killings is here. This man is beloved y'all,' added @RyanSilapan, while @2000bryam said: 'Man that R truth – Ron Killings transformation segment literally brought tears to my eyes … Give that man and Emmy.' And fan @LittleVampie222 tweeted: 'I am so freaking happy for him, man! 🖤 And so glad they gave him a moment to let us know what's up. And to shed his skin, or eh, hair. I had literal tears in my eyes and a smile on my face! Ron Killings is about to be something special!' Starting his promo on the desk, the revitalised wrestler said: 'Y'all brought R-Truth back. We want Truth, y'all got R-Truth. We won! R-Truth is back – for all of you! Every last one of you, R-Truth is back! 'I'm back for me too. You see, not only did you bring R-Truth back… you got me. Now, we all love R-Truth. I love R-Truth too.' However, he pointed out that his well-known persona can be 'too funny all the time', as well as 'too nice' and 'too forgiving'. More Trending 'Not me,' he insisted. 'I feel different. I feel alive. And for any of you that thinks I'm a lie, you think I'm some sideshow act, you think I'm a gimmick?' The crowd roared 'no', and soon went wild as commentators Wade Barrett and Michael Cole backed away as he pulled out the scissors and chopped off his locks. 'R-Truth – the truth has set me free. I am Ron Killings,' he bellowed to an incredible reaction. 'I am the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth! Now put some respect on my name!' View More » Monday Night Raw and all other WWE programming is available on Netflix. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Harry Potter fans spot major casting problem – but there's a simple answer MORE: 'Best vampire movie in history' added to Netflix to celebrate 40th anniversary MORE: The completely free streaming service that's 'like DIY Netflix' with 25,000,000 users
