‘Doctor Who’ Star Peter Capaldi Responds to Ncuti Gatwa Backlash
Peter Capaldi, known for his role as the Twelfth Doctor in the iconic sci-fi series “Doctor Who” from 2013 to 2017, recently shared his thoughts on the show’s devoted fanbase in an interview with The Times of London. Capaldi expressed his confusion over why some people take the show “so seriously,” particularly in response to the backlash surrounding the casting of Jodie Whittaker as the first female Doctor and Ncuti Gatwa as the first openly queer Black actor in the role.
“It reflects its times and it’s a good thing in the world, though it’s become a bit too big, too important for the BBC or whoever,” Capaldi remarked. “When I was a kid and watched it, it was just a monster show in the corner of the room. I don’t know why people take it so seriously.”
Gatwa, who joined the cast of “Doctor Who” in the latest season, faced racist and homophobic backlash online following his casting announcement. Showrunner Russell T Davies addressed the issue during a masterclass at Series Mania, emphasizing the distinction between genuine fans and the negative online voices that often dominate social media discussions.
“I think they are different things. I know they’re different things, I absolutely know that,” Davies explained. “And that online voice, which is hostile, exists on X, which is a hate site. We shouldn’t be surprised to find hatred on it, because it’s a hate site … It’s very dangerously assumed that that is the fan voice.”
Davies acknowledged that not every longtime “Doctor Who” fan will necessarily enjoy the show’s current direction, but he urged for respectful discourse and a return to the creative and positive aspects of fandom.
“Fandom is creative and brilliant and fun, but it’s all getting soured,” Davies lamented. “Turn those phones off for anyone under 16, chuck them in the bin. I literally am evangelical about it.”
In a surprising turn of events, Disney+ ended its partnership with the BBC in October 2025 after co-producing two seasons of “Doctor Who.” The latest season finale saw Gatwa’s character exiting the series, paving the way for the return of Billie Piper, known for her role as companion Rose Tyler alongside David Tennant’s Doctor. It remains unclear whether Piper will take on the role of the Doctor or reprise her fan-favorite companion character.
As the world of “Doctor Who” continues to evolve and face challenges, it is evident that the show’s impact and legacy remain as strong as ever, captivating audiences and sparking passionate discussions among fans old and new.
