Latest news with #Doctor
Express Tribune
38 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Ncuti Gatwa exits Doctor Who as Billie Piper returns in unexpected regeneration twist
Ncuti Gatwa has exited Doctor Who in a surprising twist that concludes his brief tenure as the Time Lord. In the finale of Series 14, which aired Saturday, Gatwa's Doctor regenerates into a form portrayed by Billie Piper — best known for her role as companion Rose Tyler in the show's early revival seasons. The transformation introduces a new, unexplained version of Piper's character, prompting speculation about her future involvement. According to the BBC, the closing credits read: 'Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor. Jodie Whittaker as the Doctor. And introducing Billie Piper.' Though this strongly hints at Piper's new incarnation as the Doctor, her role has not been officially confirmed. In a statement to the BBC, Piper said, 'It's no secret how much I love this show… to be given the opportunity to step back on that Tardis one more time was just something I couldn't refuse, but who, how, why and when, you'll just have to wait and see.' Gatwa's departure, rumored ahead of Season 2's April premiere, comes amid declining ratings. He made history as the first openly queer Black actor to portray the Doctor, joining companions Millie Gibson and Varada Sethu under showrunner Russell T Davies. His exit marks one of the shortest stints in the show's history — just slightly longer than Christopher Eccleston's — and raises questions about the show's direction. Doctor Who was commissioned for two seasons on Disney+ and the BBC but has yet to be renewed. In April, Gatwa deflected questions about a third season, saying, 'It's very ironic that in a show about time travel, you can't talk about the future.' Outside the TARDIS, Gatwa continues a successful stage career. He recently starred in The Importance of Being Earnest at London's National Theatre and is set to headline Born With Teeth this summer. He's also filming The Roses, a dark comedy directed by Jay Roach and featuring Benedict Cumberbatch, Olivia Colman, and Andy Samberg.
Daily Mirror
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Billie Piper's life - popstar fame, wild age gap marriage and huge net worth
New Doctor Who Billie Piper has had an eventful and dramatic life off screen - including teen pop success followed by death threats and two controversial marriages It's fair to say Billie Piper has had a very rocky road to achieving stardom as a critically acclaimed actress, and her love life hasn't been easy either. But she's also amassed an impressive net worth and has welcomed three children. The 42-year-old, who hails from Swindon, first became famous almost thirty years ago - as a mid-teens pop sensation. She then reinvented herself as an actor, playing companion Rose Tyler to Christopher Eccleston's Doctor in the 2005 reboot of Doctor Who. Surprising critics and viewers with her screen talent, she continues to do so today. And now, 20 years later, she has shocked us again. In this series finale, Ncuti Gatwa's current Dr Who was regenerated to reveal Billie as the new doc. It's a stunning return to the series that first made her acting name. But off screen, Billie has endured some tough times. Here, the Mirror looks back at her life so far, from her difficult teenage years, popstar fame, turbulent romances and impressive net worth... School friends with Amy Wineh Billie's gifts were evident at a young age, and at 12 years old she made the move from Swindon to London to attend the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School. Aimed at nurturing future talent, the institution has produced many household names, but not all pupils had an easy time of it - including Billie's childhood friend Amy Winehouse. During a recent episode of Jessie Ware's Table Manners podcast, Billie offered some insight into what Amy was really like as a young girl. Remembering her as 'super clever, super bright', Billie revealed: "She was always cheeky. She was always like that, you know. She would do abstract stuff, and I really loved it." Sadly, Amy's differences didn't always go down well with her fellow pupils, and Billie remembers the iconic singer being badly bullied. She continued: "She got bullied quite a lot at school because she was doing her own thing, and she liked to push buttons, and do weird stuff. And I had a lot of space for that, but not many of the girls did. It wasn't the easiest ride." Teenage fame struggles Billie skyrocketed to pop stardom at the age of just 15 with her infectiously catchy 1998 anthem 'Because We Want To'. She became the youngest artist to debut at number one in the UK Chart with the hit, and singles 'Honey to The Bee' and 'Girlfriend' followed. Although many '90s teens would have been green with envy, topping the singles chart at such a young age came with its challenges. During a 2021 episode of Desert Island Discs, she recalled how strange it felt moving to her own flat before her 16th birthday, all while dealing with the surrealness of overnight fame. Speaking of her regrets, Billie told Lauren Laverne: "At the time, it felt really exciting and liberating and satisfied me with this quest to be a grown-up. It also felt extremely desperate and lonely sometimes. "I was seeing and experiencing a lot of life at a very young age. Now, when I look back at it now that I have my own children, it seems unbelievably unsafe and plays in unhealthily to my parenting." Death threats Billie also endured a horrific campaign of harassment in her younger years as a star. In 2001, a woman penned abuse-laden messages which she then read down the phone to Billie's record company, Blackfriars Crown Court was told in 2001. She called the teenage chart-topper a "whore" and warned of decapitation, dismemberment, burning, flogging and shooting. The abuse reportedly began because the woman thought the performer had given her a "dirty look" during a recording of a TV show, which she attended as an audience member. Boyband heartache Billie met Five singer Ritchie Neville when they were teenagers, having just been thrust into the spotlight with their respective pop careers. They were love's young dream until Ritchie broke Billie's heart when he cheated. Ritchie said he was full of "regret" over his betrayal with a Russian beauty while on tour in the country - who subsequently sold her story to a British newspaper in 2000. Speaking on the BBC documentary Boybands Forever he said: "It massively hurt somebody that I loved. I regret any pain I caused but equally I was 19 you know? I made a mistake. It ended a relationship." Wild age gap marriage Billie married her first husband, Chris Evans, in 2001 when she was just 18 years old, a mere five months after their first date. Given that Chris was 16 years her senior, the age gap romance raised eyebrows at the time, but Billie looks back on their time together as a period of fun and healing. Opening up with her former Doctor Who co-star on David Tennant Does A Podcast With..., Billie reflected: "I went and got completely hammered for three years with Chris Evans. So much fun - just living very hard. But with a lot of love and a big dose of curiosity and just, yeah - amazing time. "It's funny because everyone framed that period in my life as these sort of horribly debauched, irresponsible, me falling apart looking like s***, putting on weight. That was really important to me, that period of my life. I needed that. Me not looking perfect every day in a tabloid was the best way for me to heal. "Every time there would be a picture of me looking completely groomed and manicured within an inch of my life, I can tell you I was completely unhappy and starving and dark on the inside. And I haven't brushed my hair since!" She added: "We really had a really amazing time together. I imagine it's what your uni years feel like - sort of reckless, but you're learning a lot. It was an incredible time and, not to undermine our relationship because we also had a very loving relationship. It wasn't just 'oh, we're going out and getting f*****' - we had a very caring and loving relationship." Their whirlwind marriage came to an end in 2004, amid rumours of 'screaming rows', but Billie and Chris are said to remain close friends to this day. Kids and splits In 2006, Billie entered into a relationship with Lewis actor turned right-wing activist Laurence Fox, with the couple tying the knot one year later. They went on to welcome two sons, Winston and Eugene before calling time on their marriage in 2016. In a recent interview with British Vogue the mother-of-two said of her controversial ex: "I've had to make some choices and a divorce speaks for itself. Or at least it should." Laurence is often in the spotlight for his much-criticised views. In the interview, she added: "I close everything down and keep a very strict routine with the kids so that there's consistency. "I keep them close. That's all I can do. I try to keep people from telling me stuff but it's really, really hard. I don't read it but everyone wants to talk about it. Sometimes I have to say to people, 'Please don't bring this to me, now or ever'." She went on to have a relationship with former Tribes frontman Johnny Lloyd, and they welcomed their daughter, Tallulah, who they welcomed in 2019. After eight years together, they split in 2023, citing that their 'relationship ran its course'. In a candid chat aired on Fearne Cotton's Happy Place podcast in 2021, Billie spoke about the difficulties of juggling motherhood with a hectic career. Billie shared: "Striking a balance is unachievable and as soon as you let go and just accept that, there are useful changes... I cry at the end of every day and spend an hour in bed saying, 'I'll be better tomorrow, I swear. I'm going to read my parenting manual tonight and everything will be better tomorrow.'" In an open letter to Tallulah, published in Stylist, Billie reflected that she'd been so fearful of having a daughter, anguished by all she didn't want her to experience, that she didn't realise just how overjoyed she'd be by her arrival. She wrote: "You have restored – without knowing it – all my faith in strong female energy. I want to learn from you and revel in your beauty. You are not just female, you are other. And from listing all of my anxieties above (there are many and I promise to always work on myself), I'm at my most calm and able around you. You are powerful." Huge net worth After her time on Doctor Who in 2005, Billie picked up leading roles in Secret Diary of a Call Girl and I Hate Suzie, which she co-created alongside playwright Lucy Prebble, as well as starring in the Netflix drama, Scoop. Not to mention her glittering stage career - winning Best Theatre Actress for Great Britain in 2014 and being honoured with a Laurence Olivier Award among countless other accolades for her lead performance in Yerma in 2017. Following her impressive career, she has amassed an impressive net worth. The actress is estimated to have a net worth of $12 million (around £9 million), according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Newsweek
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Ncuti Gatwa Leaves 'Doctor Who' Having Never Faced Iconic Dalek Foes
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Ncuti Gatwa is set to depart the long-running BBC television series Doctor Who without ever encountering the Time Lord's most infamous enemies: the Daleks. Despite his groundbreaking tenure as the 15th Doctor and the first Black actor to assume the role, Gatwa's era will close without a showdown against the sci-fi series' iconic villains. Ncuti Gatwa, left in New York, May 5, 2025, in New York; and Billie Piper in London, March 27, 2024. Ncuti Gatwa, left in New York, May 5, 2025, in New York; and Billie Piper in London, March 27, 2024. Evan Agostini,Vianney Le Caer/AP The Context Ncuti Gatwa officially departed Doctor Who on Saturday, saying he "loved every minute of it," after his Doctor regenerated into Billie Piper in a season finale that has sparked mixed reactions from fans. Piper, 42, is no stranger to the series, having first appeared in 2005 as Rose Tyler, companion to Christopher Eccleston's Ninth Doctor, and later alongside David Tennant's Tenth Doctor. Gatwa's exit, long speculated, now confirms him as the second-shortest-serving Doctor, following Eccleston's single-season run. What To Know Gatwa becomes only the second actor never to face the Daleks during his tenure in the lead role—joining Paul McGann, whose Eighth Doctor battled them only in audio dramas, while David Tennant's Tenth Doctor encountered them, but his brief return as the Fourteenth did not. A full size Dalek during a photo call at the Propstore in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, ahead of their Doctor Who auction for BBC Children in Need. A full size Dalek during a photo call at the Propstore in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, ahead of their Doctor Who auction for BBC Children in Need. Press Association via AP Images Doctor Who first premiered in 1963 and ran until 1989 before going on an extended hiatus. The series, about a heroic time traveling Doctor who battles dark forces of the universe, was successfully revived in 2005 under the guidance of writer Russell T Davies, ushering in a new era for the iconic sci-fi show. Key elements of the franchise's longevity are: the Doctor's Tardis time machine, a converted antiquated police phone box; and the concept of regeneration, in which the Doctor undergoes a transformation into a new body and personality following events that would typically be fatal. This also doubles as a handy dramatic device to switch actors in the lead role. Additionally, the Doctor is kitted out with a "sonic screwdriver," an equivalent to Batman's utility belt. To date,14 actors have officially portrayed the Doctor in numbered roles, David Tennant uniquely returning to play both the 10th and 14th incarnations. Additionally, the late John Hurt portrayed the previously unknown "War Doctor" in a special episode marking the show's 50th anniversary. What People Are Saying Gatwa said: "You know when you get cast, at some point, you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it. "This journey has been one that I will never forget and a role that will be part of me forever. There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe. "The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show and I can't thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in, and making this such a touching experience. Billie Piper said in a press release: "It's no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that Tardis one more time was just something I couldn't refuse, but who, how, why and when you'll just have to wait and see." Russell T. Davies in the BBC press release said: "What a Doctor! Thank you, Ncuti! As his final words say, this has been an absolute joy, and the team in Cardiff and everyone who has worked on this show for the past few years, are so lucky to have been part of Ncuti's great adventure as he shoots off to stratospheric new heights." What Happens Next It remains unknown at this stage when the next series will be released on BBC. In the U.S. the show airs on Disney+. The fact that Gatwa has not battled the Daleks, gives him the perfect excuse to return in a later series, plot permitting.
Daily Mirror
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Rylan left sobbing by Doctor Who exit as he shares emotional reaction to finale
Doctor Who fans were left gobsmacked on Saturday when former star of the show, Billie Piper, was revealed as the new Doctor in news which had a profound effect on star Rylan Clark Rylan Clark was left sobbing on Saturday after Doctor Who's jaw-dropping twist. In news which left the show's legion of loyal fans stunned, former star of the sci-fi series, Billie Piper, was revealed as the new Doctor when current Time Lord, played by Ncuti Gatwa, regenerated. Taking to Instagram with tears streaming down his face after watching the episode in which Billie, who played the Doctor's companion, Rose Tyler, from 2005 - 2006 returned to the show in stunning style, Rylan said: "I'll probably look back at this with real embarrassment, but I've just watched Doctor Who and I don't know what's just happened. Omg, it's unbelievable. What a turn out." Sharing the emotional post, show creator Russell T Davies replied to the TV presenter, saying: "Love you Rylan" with a big red heart emoji. Rylan popped up in Doctor Who two weeks ago, portraying the host of the Interstellar Song Contest, which is akin to a galactic version of the Eurovision Song Contest, on the BBC's iconic show. Revealing that showrunner Russell had given him a special role on the programme, he said on Instagram: "So I have been keeping that secret for a year. I am so excited. I am a massive, massive Whovian. I love Doctor Who. I've loved it for years. And when I got that call I was so overwhelmed and I'm not gonna lie, I did have a little tear. Maybe a few more tears. It was the best experience of my life." Meanwhile, following her exit from Doctor Who, Billie, 42, went on to make cameo appearances in the series in 2008 and 2010. The actress previously returned for the 50th anniversary special as a separate character, but was still credited as Rose Tyler. The huge news regarding her latest epic casting comes just days after speculation that Ncuti was preparing to step down from the role. Speaking about her return, Billie said: "It's no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that Tardis one more time was just something I couldn't refuse." Meanwhile, in a statement released by the BBC, Ncuti said: "You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it. "This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever. There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe. "The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show, and I can't thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in and making this such a touching experience. "I've loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have. I'll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor." Taking to social media, fans couldn't contain their joy when Billie was revealed as Ncuti's replacement. One said: "OMFG just watched the final episode of Doctor Who. Spoiler alert. Billie Piper as the Doctor. WTF." A second added: "Billie Piper as the 16th Doctor wasn't what I expected but hey it is something!" Meanwhile, another declared: "Billie Piper in Doctor Who. In the year 2025. not on my bingo cards."
Pink Villa
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Doctor Who Season 2 Ending Explained: Has Billie Piper Returned and Why Did Ncuti Gatwa Exit?
The Doctor Who Season 2 finale, titled The Reality War, brought major changes to the Whoniverse. The mystery behind the destruction of Earth on May 24, 2025, was finally solved, but the episode ended with a big twist. The 15th Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa, regenerates and is replaced by a familiar face: Billie Piper. This marks the end of Gatwa's time as the Doctor after just two seasons, which the actor confirmed in a behind-the-scenes video. "Yes, this is the end of my Doctor," Gatwa said. While it's a short run, his Doctor had just started to find his place. What Happened in The Reality War? The episode picks up from the Wish World cliffhanger, with Anita (Steph de Whalley) saving the Doctor from his fall. Now promoted to manager of the Time Hotel, Anita has access to a key that opens doors to any time. However, on May 24, 2025, the hotel is destabilized due to the Earth's collapse on that date. With Anita's help, the Doctor wakes UNIT from their Wish World illusion. They return to fight the Rani (Archie Panjabi), Mrs. Flood (Anita Dobson), and Conrad (Jonah Hauer-King). The Rani plans to revive Omega to create a new Gallifrey and a new Time Lord race, as the Master's destruction of Gallifrey left survivors infertile, except for the Doctor and Belinda's daughter, Poppy. Despite the contradiction, Poppy is proven real. The Doctor tasks Susan Triad (Susan Twist) with building a Zero Room to keep Belinda and Poppy safe. After Omega is defeated, Belinda and Poppy return, but Poppy vanishes and is forgotten by the Doctor and Belinda. Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson) notices this and begs the Doctor to fix it. The 15th Doctor tries to shift time using his regeneration energy. Jodie Whittaker's 13th Doctor appears briefly to stop him, warning that it could destroy reality. "It could end everything," she says, but gives in when the 15th Doctor explains what's at stake. After believing Poppy is safe and realizing she was never his daughter, the 15th Doctor regenerates. The twist? His new face is Billie Piper, who played companion Rose Tyler in earlier seasons. "Oh, hello," she says, recognizing her own face. The credits list Piper as Introducing Billie Piper, not as the Doctor. This raises questions. Is she really the 16th Doctor, or another Bad Wolf moment? Fans are speculating whether this is a glitch, a tease for something bigger, or just nostalgia.
