Ncuti Gatwa, the British and Rwandan-acclaimed actor who brought a fresh energy to the iconic role of Doctor Who, announced his departure from the BBC series during an episode of Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg aired on July 13, 2025.
When directly asked why he decided to step away from the demanding role, Gatwa candidly replied: “I’m exhausted. My body is depleted. My body, these bones of mine… and I’ve now started training in ballet. So, I’m making really wise decisions.”
He acknowledged that while leaving Doctor Who—a role “every actor in the world dreams of”- was bittersweet, the sheer demands of the part had become overwhelming. “It’s the best job on Earth, better than any other job every actor longs for. Precisely because it’s so wonderful, it’s also intensely hard and requires tremendous stamina. It takes a massive toll on your body, mental health, and soul. So, the time had come for me to step away.”
The revelation sheds light on the immense physical and mental commitment required to portray the time-traveling alien. Gatwa’s tenure was marked by critical acclaim and a passionate fanbase, making his departure a significant moment for the long-running science fiction franchise.
When questioned about a potential return to Doctor Who in the future, Gatwa offered a glimmer of hope, responding: “I wouldn’t say it’s impossible.” However, he emphasized that any future involvement would be contingent on his physical health, referring to his “bones,” and the natural realities of aging, suggesting a pragmatic approach to his career choices moving forward.
