The BBC have shut down claims Doctor Who is being cancelled but have not addressed claims surrounding Ncuti Gatwa’s departure from the legendary series.

Doctor Who star’s ‘replacement’ revealed (Image: BBC)

Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa stepped into the famed role in 2023, taking over the lead role of the Doctor after Jodie Whittaker bowed out.

It has since been reported he is looking to leave the role behind after the 15th series airs later this year.

It comes after previous reports claimed the BBC had plans to axe the show altogether which bosses have vehemently denied.

In a statement released today, a BBC spokesperson said: “This story is incorrect, Doctor Who has not been shelved. As we have previously stated, the decision on season 3 will be made after season 2 airs.

“The deal with Disney+ was for 26 episodes – and exactly half of those still have to transmit. And as for the rest, we never comment on the Doctor and future storylines.”

David Tennant has been tipped to make a Doctor Who comeback (Image: Getty)

Bookmakers have speculated who could potentially replace Ncuti with a former show star making a return.

David Tennant is among the contenders to become the next full-time lead actor in Doctor Who after it was rumoured Gatwa will be quitting the show, according to betideas.com.

Tennant made a return to the series for three episodes in 2023 but is 5/1 to become the permanent replacement for Gatwa, placing him third in the betting.

Josh O’Connor who has been tipped to be the next James Bond in recent week leads the market here at 2/1, with Jack Lowden (4/1) and Richard Armitage (7/1) completing the top four selections.

Other stars in the running include Leo Woodall (8/1) and Harris Dickinson (10/1).

Lee Astley, spokesperson for betideas.com, said: “Ncuti Gatwa’s tenure as Dr Who appears to be coming to a premature end and we reckon there’s a firm chance the BBC turn to David Tennant once again to try and steer the series back on track.

“Tennant is arguably the most-loved Doctor in the programme’s history and is 5/1 to replace Gatwa on a full-time basis after his cameos in 2023, placing him behind only Josh O’Connor and Jack Lowden in the betting.”

The rumours of Gatwa’s have sparked fears the BBC could cancel the series – which has seen the show’s viewership drop from the huge numbers of its heyday to just 3.5 million in the most recent episodes.

The dramatic drop in ratings has also been recorded despite Disney investing in the long-running show since season 14 was planned.