Jodie Whittaker 'grief-ridden' ahead of last Doctor Who appearance

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As fans prepare to tune into Jodie Whittaker’s final episode as the 13th Doctor, many fans claimed the long-running sci-fi series had turned “woke”. However, showrunner Chris Chibnall rejected this claim in his recent response as he defended Doctor Who. 

Jodie’s departure as Doctor Who won’t be the only exit the series will be met with, as Chris will also step down as a writer. 

Having written in several episodes of the show since season three, the showrunner has faced criticism throughout his tenure. 

However, in a recent interview, Chris revealed this was nothing new as he had faced backlash from viewers during his time as the writer on ITV’s Broadchurch. 

Defending Doctor Who, the showrunner stated: “I think the world has changed, the show hasn’t, they should go and have a look at some of the past episodes.”

Jodie Whittaker’s trail-blazing appearance as the show’s first female Doctor was met with a mixed reaction from viewers. 

Many welcomed the change and looked forward to seeing the adventures she would take on as the Time Lord. 

Whereas others scolded the show for its “progressive” steps and claimed the sci-fi series had become “full-on woke.” 

Responding to these claims, Chris continued: “It’s a show of great empathy and humanity and tolerance and always has been, right from the start.

“I have nothing to say to that! It’s a mad old comment,” he added.

Reflecting on the criticism he received for his previous shows, Chris shared: “I was prepared for it, I’ve done Broadchurch, so I know what it means to do a big show and to be criticised. “It’s just part of the course. You can only be the writer you are and you can only be the showrunner you are so you make the show.

“I haven’t been on social media since 2015 and you really just have to do the work that you believe in,” he added to Metro.co.uk.

The showrunner then stated that although each viewer was entitled to their own opinion, he ensured it didn’t let it affect his work. 

Jodie’s final-ever episode as Doctor will come to an end with a feature-length centenary special on October 23.

The highly anticipated special will see the return of the deadliest enemies including The Master, Daleks and Cybermen. 

There will also be multiple appearances from familiar faces including Tegan Jovanka (played by Janet Fielding) and Ace (Sophie Aldred). 

In September, it was announced the Sex Education star Ncuti Gatwa would become the 14th Doctor.

Speaking on his new role, Ncuti shared: “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 utmost to do the same.”

Ncuti is expected to make his first appearance as the 14th Doctor in 2023. 

Doctor Who: The Power of the Doctor premieres on BBC on Sunday, October 23 at 7:30pm 

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