‘Doctor Who’ season 9 spoilers: Jenna Coleman confirms return to series

While the end of the “Doctor Who” Christmas Special on Christmas Day made it pretty close to clear that Jenna Coleman would be returning as Clara Oswald, it is now certainly more than official.

Speaking per the show’s own network in the BBC after the conclusion of the event, the actress, rumored at one point to be leaving this season, explained in part that the character growth we saw throughout the series is a real reason that she wanted to stick around and explore this further:

“It’s wonderful … I get a whole other series of stories with the Doctor, and I couldn’t walk away with the story being unresolved…. I think [Clara and the Doctor] finally just reached a point where they really understand each other.”

While Coleman makes it sound as though she will be around the entire ninth season, we still would not be surprised if there was some sort of transition during the process. Regardless, this is some of the best consistency the show has seen in a while, making this two straight seasons with the same two actors in the leading role.

Also, we totally agree with what Jenna is saying here, at least in that this season started a little shaky when it comes to the Doctor and Clara, but then ended with a series of very strong episodes that showcased more than ever the sort of loving bond that these two share. They are not necessarily in love with each other, but their relationship is complicated and full of care.

New episode of the series return to BBC One in the fall; if you missed it, be sure to head over here to read our full review of the Christmas Special right now. Also, you can sign up right away to get further TV news on everything we cover at CarterMatt via our official newsletter. (Photo: BBC One.)