If you are a fan of Doctor Who, then there is a good chance you’re ready to the the Doctor undergo a totally new transformation. And, no – we’re not talking about another regeneration. Since Doctor Who made its debut on the BBC decades ago, the sci-fi series has seen dozens of stars take up the show’s leading role. However, fans are ready to see Doctor Who stray away from its usual pool of talent to embrace something fans have been begging for.
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It’s no secret: Doctor Who fans want to see a female Doctor. They would also love for the Time-Lord (or Lady) embrace a more diverse stance and eventually regenerate into a person of color. And, now, a new report is suggesting that the BBC is finally catching up with the times when it comes to this request.
That’s right! According to a report from Nerdist, the site’s source have told them that the BBC is looking for actresses who could bring the Doctor to life. And, what’s more, it seems like there may already be a frontrunner for the role.
The report suggests that Michaela Coel is being closely looked at to become the 13th Doctor. The BBC told Nerdist that no casting for Doctor Who‘s upcoming season has been made yet, and other sources (such as The Sun) have cautioned against the hope of a female Doctor. However, if the site’s firm source is correct, then Coel’s frontrunner status could mean Doctor Who is wanting to make a few milestones. If the actress does end up being offered the role, the Doctor Who would have both its first female Doctor and one who’s also a person of color.
If you are not familiar with Coel, then you will want to check out your Netflix queue. The British star is the leading actress, writer, and producer of the tv series Chewing Gum which has won several awards overseas.
Of course, this is not the first report tying an actor to the role of the 13th Doctor. Earlier this month, reports began to surface that the BBC was interested in having Kris Marshall take on the role.
However, between these two choices, there is at least one former Doctor Who star who would champion Coel’s casting. Recently, Karen Gillan said that the TARDIS could stand some more diversity these days in an interview with ScreenRant.
“Both. Let’s go with both.” Gillan explained. “We need some diversity in the TARDIS. That would be great, and also a female could absolutely play the Doctor. You know, some people question it, and I’m like, you’re crazy. Of course, a female can play that role. There are so many actresses that could do that and I’d love to see that.”
Doctor Who airs Saturdays on BBC America.
More Doctor Who: Promo Offers First Glimpse At Peter Capaldi’s Regeneration / Peter Capaldi Hints That His Will be A Unique Regeneration For The Doctor / Doctor Who Introduces First Openly Gay Companion
