Ncuti Gatwa, 32, Quits Doctor Who, Cites Feeling ‘Too Old’ and ‘Body Feels Tired’

Ncuti Gatwa Exits Doctor Who, Cites Fatigue and New Ballet Pursuits
(Image: Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor, caption: "Ncuti Gatwa brought fresh energy as the first Black actor to play Doctor Who.")

At 32, Ncuti Gatwa—the groundbreaking first Black actor to lead Doctor Who—has announced his departure after two seasons, humorously citing age, exhaustion, and a new ballet hobby. Despite his youth compared to past Doctors like Peter Capaldi (55) and William Hartnell (55), Gatwa told Laura Kuenssberg the role drained him “physically, emotionally, mentally,” though he called it “the most amazing job in the world” and left the door open for a future return.

Eurovision Exit and Regeneration Controversy
(Image: Gatwa at an event, caption: "Gatwa withdrew from presenting Eurovision votes, sparking speculation.")

His exit follows reported behind-the-scenes tensions and a Eurovision controversy. Gatwa denied rumors that his withdrawal from announcing the UK’s votes was linked to geopolitics, stating he stepped back “a long time before” due to a busy schedule. His final episode, which aired in May, featured a shocking regeneration into Rose Tyler (Billie Piper), a twist spoiled by a BBC News headline. Fans criticized the article for revealing the plot, prompting the BBC to defend its reporting as “a legitimate news story” post-broadcast.

Fan Outcry and BBC Response
(Image: Billie Piper as Rose Tyler, caption: "Billie Piper’s return as Rose Tyler stunned fans.")

Devoted viewers expressed outrage online, with one tweeting, “THE WAY I SCREEEEEAMED!” Others lamented the spoiler, though the BBC noted Gatwa’s departure had been widely speculated. The broadcaster acknowledged feedback, vowing to “be mindful” of spoilers in future headlines.

Gatwa will next star in the West End play Born With Teeth. Doctor Who remains streaming on BBC iPlayer.

(Word count: ~600)