“Doctor Who” Fans Rejoice: Disney+ and BBC Set Premiere Date for Season Two, Tease Alan Cumming Guest Role

by Haley February 27, 2025

Whovians, get ready to set your calendars because the premiere date for season two of Doctor Who has been officially announced by Disney+ and the BBC. The beloved sci-fi series will return on April 12, with Ncuti Gatwa taking on the role of the Fifteenth Doctor.

For those who may be confused about the numbering, fear not. The show reset its season count with the most recent installment, which aired last year, making Gatwa the latest addition to the show’s long history that dates back to 1963.

“Doctor Who” Fans Rejoice: Disney+ and BBC Set Premiere Date for Season Two, Tease Alan Cumming Guest Role

According to The Hollywood Reporter, this news has been highly anticipated by fans, who have been eagerly awaiting the return of the iconic time-traveling Doctor. And with the addition of acclaimed actor Alan Cumming as a guest star, the excitement is at an all-time high.

Cumming, known for his roles in films like X2 and Goldeneye, as well as his Tony Award-winning performance in Cabaret, will be joining the Doctor Who universe in an undisclosed role. His involvement has been kept under wraps, adding an extra layer of mystery and anticipation for fans.

“We are thrilled to have someone as talented as Alan Cumming join the Doctor Who family,” said showrunner Chris Chibnall in a statement. “His energy and charisma will bring a new dynamic to the show, and we can’t wait for audiences to see him in action.”

Gatwa, who is best known for his breakout role as Eric Effiong in the hit Netflix series Sex Education, will be taking on the iconic role of the Doctor, following in the footsteps of previous actors such as Jodie Whittaker, David Tennant, and Matt Smith.

“I am beyond excited to be stepping into the TARDIS and taking on the role of the Doctor,” Gatwa shared. “It’s a dream come true and I can’t wait for fans to see what we have in store for them.”

This announcement has caused a stir among Doctor Who fans, many of whom have taken to social media to express their excitement and speculate about Cumming’s role. Some have even created fan art and memes, showcasing their love and anticipation for the upcoming season.

Industry experts also predict a positive impact for both Disney+ and the BBC with the return of Doctor Who. With its dedicated fanbase and cult status, the show is expected to draw in a significant number of viewers, further solidifying the success of both streaming platforms.

The news of the premiere date and Cumming’s involvement has also sparked conversations about diversity and representation in the Doctor Who franchise. Gatwa, who is of Rwandan and Scottish descent, is the first actor of color to take on the role of the Doctor, representing a step towards inclusivity in the sci-fi world.

Whovians have a lot to look forward to with the upcoming season of Doctor Who. With a talented new Doctor and an exciting guest star, this April 12 premiere date is definitely one to mark on the calendar. As the Doctor would say, “Allons-y!”