Watch the moment Piper returns in the video

DOCTOR Who has stunned fans by replacing Ncuuti Gatwa with former star Billie Piper in a shock series ending.

Piper, 42, is a fan favourite on the long-running BBC series, originally playing sidekick Rose Tyler to Christopher Ecclestone’s Doctor back in 2005.

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Ncuti Gatwa has said goodbye to Doctor Who with a finale regenerationCredit: PA

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Billie Piper has made her triumphant comeback to the show as the new DoctorCredit: PA

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As Rose Tyler, Billie travelled the cosmos with Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant’s DoctorsCredit: Alamy
But in last night’s series finale, fans were shocked to see her make a stunning return as outgoing Gatwa’s Dr Who regenerated to reveal Piper as the new doc.

Gatwa, 32, the show’s 15th Doctor, leaves after just two series, amid widespread reports of plunging ratings and doubts over its future linked to woke storylines.

It is unclear if Piper’s role will be a permanent move.

Her character remained with David Tennant’s Tenth Doctor, before becoming trapped in a parallel world.

However, she has made several appearances throughout the show since.

In the series finale Gatwa’s Doctor faced off against enemy the Rani in another bid to save the world.

However, he sacrificed his life in a bid to save the life of a little girl.

As he went through the show’s now iconic regeneration scene, he transformed into a familiar face of Rose – marking Piper’s return as the 16th Doctor.

She then mumbled a quick “Oh Hello!” and smiled before the series ended.

Speaking of her return, Billie said: “It’s no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that Tardis one more time was just something I couldn’t refuse.

“But who, how, why and when, you’ll just have to wait and see.”

Speaking of his decision to leave, Ncuti said: “You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it.

“This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever.

“There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe.”

“The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show and I can’t thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in, and making this such a touching experience,” Ncuti continued.

“I’ve loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have.

“I’ll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.”

Showrunner Russell T Davies said it was “an honour and a hoot” to welcome Billie back to the show, though also played coy when it came to what this means for the Time Lord going forward.

Instead, he just noted: “After 62 years, the Doctor’s adventures are only just beginning!”

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Billie first appeared as afn favourite companion Rose in 2005Credit: Alamy

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Ncuti has thanked fans for his time on the series.Credit: PA