DOCTOR Who fans are in for a treat as the fan-favourite show is returning to screens this December.
The Christmas special titled ”Joy to the World”, marks one year since actor Ncuti Gatwa’s first episode as the Doctor.
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Who is Ncuti Gatwa?
Ncuti Gatwa is a Rwandan-Scottish actor who is best known for his role in the popular Netflix series Sex Education.
Born in Kigali, Rwanda on October 15, 1992, he was raised in Scotland and graduated in 2013 with a BA in Acting from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
The star rose to fame as Eric Effiong on Sex Education, earning three Bafta nominations and the love of fans for his talented portrayal.
In May 2020, Ncuti has opened up about his struggles with homelessness before making his big break.
Ncuti said: “I never let people know how down I was feeling.
“That would have been another burden for my friends to take on.
“My mind became my biggest enemy.”
When did Ncuti Gatwa become the new Doctor Who?
In May 2022, it was announced that the actor would be starring as the 14th Doctor in Doctor Who.
Ncuti stepped into the shoes of Jodie Whittaker, who made history by playing the first ever female Time Lord.
Speaking about her departure at the time, Jodie said: “In 2017 I opened my glorious gift box of size 13 shoes.
“I could not have guessed the brilliant adventures, worlds and wonders I was to see in them.
“My heart is so full of love for this show, for the team who make it, for the fans who watch it and for what it has brought to my life.
“And I cannot thank Chris enough for entrusting me with his incredible stories. We knew that we wanted to ride this wave side by side, and pass on the baton together.
“So here we are, weeks away from wrapping on the best job I have ever had. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to express what this role has given me. I will carry the Doctor and the lessons I’ve learnt forever.
“I know change can be scary and none of us know what’s out there. That’s why we keep looking. Travel Hopefully. The Universe will surprise you. Constantly.”
Following Whittaker’s exit, Ncuti Gatwa made his debut on the show’s final 60th-anniversary special episode.
At the time, Ncuti said: “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.”
Which other TV shows has Ncuti Gatwa starred in?
Ncuti started his career in 2014 after graduating, but it wasn’t until 2016 that he achieved his big break.
His first role was in an episode of the British sitcom Bob Servant in as an unnamed customer.
He also starred in a 2015 adaptation of Scottish author Iain Banks’ novel Stonemouth.
However, Sex Education was where Ncuti’s star really began to shine as Eric, the best friend of main character Otis Milburn, played by Asa Butterfield.
Eric’s story of struggling with his sexuality and facing homophobia touched the hearts of many fans of the shows, making him a firm favourite.
Ncuti was also cast in Greta Gerwig’s highly-anticipated live action Barbie movie alongside Sex Education co-star Emma Mackey.
This marked the third film he has starred in – the first two were the Horrible Histories movie in 2019 and the romantic drama The Last Letter from Your Lover in 2021.