Doctor Who season 11: Jodie Whittaker, Peter Capaldi, more talk casting

Let’s start with this — the idea that Jodie Whittaker even has to assure Doctor Who fans that she’s right for the job is a problem. She’s a fantastic actor and her introduction via the BBC today was rather badass. She brings a TON to the table, and the fact that she’s a woman shouldn’t be some sort of reason for longtime fans to quiver in fear.

It’s with this thinking in mind that we’re not going to dive into what she has to say about the “controversy” of her being the Doctor, mostly because there really shouldn’t be any controversy towards that at all. What matters is what comes in terms of the story — without that, it doesn’t matter who the Doctor is. This is a show that relies mostly on the strength of its writing and some of its characters.

Any “controversy” aside, Whittaker spoke for the first time about the casting in a BBC statement today, and she makes it clear precisely why she’s so thrilled to have the part:

“I’m beyond excited to begin this epic journey – with Chris and with every Whovian on this planet. It’s more than an honor to play the Doctor. It means remembering everyone I used to be, while stepping forward to embrace everything the Doctor stands for: hope. I can’t wait.”

Meanwhile, here are a few other important statements from people within the Doctor Who family.

Chris Chibnall, new showrunner – “After months of lists, conversations, auditions, recalls, and a lot of secret-keeping, we’re excited to welcome Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor. I always knew I wanted the Thirteenth Doctor to be a woman and we’re thrilled to have secured our number one choice. Her audition for The Doctor simply blew us all away.  Jodie is an in-demand, funny, inspiring, super-smart force of nature and will bring loads of wit, strength and warmth to the role. The Thirteenth Doctor is on her way.”

Peter Capaldi, twelfth Doctor (his final appearance is coming in the Christmas Special) – “Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker’s work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm. She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She’s going to be a fantastic Doctor.”

Matt Stevens, executive producer – “”I’m so thrilled that Jodie Whittaker said yes to playing the Doctor. I’ve been a fan for years and always hoped to work with her. She is an actor of great emotional range and inhabits every role with complete passion and conviction. Just thinking about what she will bring to the Doctor makes me as excited as a kid at Christmas. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Clearly, there are a ton of people excited about the role, and rightfully so since her as The Doctor is going to be such a great addition. We’re excited to cover her and seeing how Chibnall builds around her — including companions, stories, and various adventures. This is a show ultimately about imagination and pursuing the best in the universe; hopefully, he and Whittaker continue to bring that.

Want to read more of our own take on the casting?

Then head over here, as we wrote quite a bit more about who Whittaker is a little bit earlier today. (Photo: BBC.)