The BBC has announced that Jodie Whittaker is to leave Doctor Who, alongside showrunner Chris Chibnall, in 2022.
The first ever female actor to portray The Doctor will bow out after the new series, due to air over six episodes this autumn, and a trio of specials next year - in similar fashion to David Tennant's exit from the show in 2010.
In a statement confirming the news, Whittaker 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."
Chibnall added: "Jodie and I made a 'three series and out' pact with each other at the start of this once-in-a-lifetime blast. So now our shift is done, and we're handing back the TARDIS keys.
"Jodie's magnificent, iconic Doctor has exceeded all our high expectations. She's been the gold standard leading actor, shouldering the responsibility of being the first female Doctor with style, strength, warmth, generosity and humour.
"She captured the public imagination and continues to inspire adoration around the world, as well as from everyone on the production. I can't imagine working with a more inspiring Doctor - so I'm not going to!
"For me, leading this exceptional team has been unrivalled creative fun, and one of the great joys of my career. I'm so proud of the people we've worked with and the stories we've told.
"To finish our time on the show with an additional Special, after the pandemic changed and challenged our production plans, is a lovely bonus. It's great that the climax of the Thirteenth Doctor's story will be at the heart(s) of the BBC's centenary celebrations.
"I wish our successors - whoever the BBC and BBC Studios choose - as much fun as we've had. They're in for a treat!"
After the new six-part series - which will tell a single story - the first 2022 special will air on New Year's Day, with the second following around Easter and the final likely to be transmitted in October when the BBC marks its 100th birthday.
Neil Wilkes
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