In a move that signals a thrilling new chapter for the iconic British series, the BBC has forged a monumental partnership with Disney Branded Television. This landmark deal will see new episodes of Doctor Who, led by the incoming Fifteenth Doctor Ncuti Gatwa, broadcast simultaneously around the globe on Disney+ outside of the UK and Ireland.
The collaboration, described by the BBC as a 'shared creative vision', aims to propel the Time Lord's adventures to a vast new international audience. This strategic shift marks one of the most significant developments in the show's storied 60-year history.
A New Home for the TARDIS
Starting from November 2023 with three special episodes starring David Tennant, and continuing with Ncuti Gatwa's first full series in 2024, Disney+ will become the exclusive home for new Doctor Who content outside of the UK and Ireland. For British viewers, the series will continue to premiere on BBC One and be available on BBC iPlayer.
Showrunner Russell T Davies hailed the partnership as a 'huge vote of confidence' for the show. He expressed his excitement about the production values and global reach this deal will afford the new series, promising audiences 'epic stories and fierce villains' on a scale never before seen in the programme's history.
Global Ambitions for a British Icon
BBC Director General Tim Davie emphasised that while the show is gaining a global platform, it will remain 'rooted in the UK'. The partnership is seen as a powerful way to bring British culture to a worldwide audience while ensuring the show's distinct identity is preserved.
The deal covers the upcoming seasons and specials, ensuring that for the first time, international fans can experience new episodes at the exact same time as UK viewers, eliminating the long waits and spoiler anxiety that have previously plagued the global fanbase.
