Doctor Who Christmas Special 2014: Last Christmas

The 2014 Doctor Who Christmas Special, titled "Last Christmas," airs tonight on BBC America.

Where past Doctor Who Christmas Specials have introduced new companions and new Doctors, and last year's served as Matt Smith's final episode of the series, the biggest question surrounding "Last Christmas" is the final fate of Clara Oswald. Clara and the Doctor seemed to have parted ways in the Series 8 finale, "Death in Heaven," but that was before Santa Claus (guest star Nick Frost) showed up to ask the Doctor what he wants for Christmas.

Rumors that Jenna Coleman, who plays Clara, would be leaving the show after Series 8 began circulating prior to the series premiere, but different rumors that began surfacing later in the series' run suggested that she was sticking around after all. The way things ended between her and the Doctor in "Death in Heaven" seemed to suggest a departure, but her inclusion in "Last Christmas" adds a new wrinkle to the tale. For their part, Coleman, the BBC, and Steven Moffat have refused to confirm or deny the rumors of departure because it would spoil the Christmas Special's story.

"Last Christmas" will also be the first Christmas Special to feature the Twelfth Doctor, played by Peter Capaldi. Capaldi made his debut as the Doctor in Series 8, and has brought a sterner personality to the role than his most recent predecessors, one that seems less patient with human beings. As Series 8 progressed, it became apparent that the Doctor's soft side still exists under his curmudgeon demeanor. Will the magic of Christmas and Santa Claus himself be able to bring the Doctor's caring nature to the forefront?

Here's the episodes official synopsis:

Two heroic icons – the Doctor and Santa – along with Clara Oswald, are thrown together in one of the Time Lord's most incredible adventures yet!

The Doctor and Clara face their Last Christmas. Trapped on an Arctic base, under attack from terrifying creatures, who are you going to call? Santa Claus!

"Last Christmas" is written by Steven Moffat and directed by Paul Wilmshurst. The BBC has released several preview images from the episode, included in the gallery at the bottom of the page, as well a a trailer and a preview video, embedded below.

The Doctor Who 2014 Christmas Special, "Last Christmas," will air Christmas Day at 9 p.m. ET on BBC America.