Peter Capaldi, who played the Twelfth Doctor in Doctor Who from 2013 to 2017, has said the BBC forgot the show was originally made for children, contributing to its current struggles. The sci-fi series is facing its toughest period since being axed in 1989, following a controversial return by showrunner Russell T Davies and disappointing viewing figures for the Fifteenth Doctor, Ncuti Gatwa.
Capaldi said the show became too focused on its brand and economic importance, losing the small-scale charm that made it a hit. He told the Half the Picture podcast: 'The show became very, very big. And it was never like that when I loved it. ... It was just a show that some kids really loved and other kids didn't care about.' He added that the show is 'a little bit of a victim of its success.'
The actor also discussed the intense fame that comes with the role, saying nothing can prepare you for being recognised everywhere, especially by young fans who believe you are the Doctor. He noted that older actors like himself coped better than younger stars, as he was 'quiet and remained quite a dull person,' with little for the public to see beyond mundane activities like shopping.
Gatwa left the role after just two seasons, with the character regenerating into Billie Piper, who previously played companion Rose Tyler. Disney+ has also pulled out of its streaming deal, adding to the show's woes. Capaldi did not speculate on Gatwa's reasons for leaving but recalled the advice he received from predecessors David Tennant and Matt Smith about the life-changing nature of the fame.
