- "Sex Education" actor Ncuti Gatwa is set to be the new Time Lord in the sci-fi series "
Doctor Who ." - This marks the first time a Black actor will be playing the iconic role of the Doctor full-time.
"Sex Education" actor Ncuti Gatwa is set to become the new Time Lord in "Doctor Who," marking the first time a Black actor will be playing the iconic role full-time.
"There aren't quite the words to describe how I'm feeling. A mix of deeply honored, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared," the 29-year-old said in a press release on Sunday.
"This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care. I will endeavor my utmost to do the same," Gatwa added.
The Rwanda-born Scottish actor will be taking over from Jodie Whittaker, who made history in 2017 by becoming the first female Doctor. Gatwa is set to make his debut as the 14th Doctor next year.
While Gatwa won't be the first Black Doctor — British actress Jo Martin played a variation of the role for several episodes in 2020 — he will be the first Black actor to helm the iconic British sci-fi show.
On social media, people reacted to the new casting with excitement, with many saying that they felt "seen."
—Dominic G. Martin (@DominicJGM) May 8, 2022
Marvel star Simu Liu tweeted: "I am overflowing with happiness. Ncuti makes all of our days brighter on set with his boundless enthusiasm and radiant energy. This could not happen to a better human being PERIOD. THE DOCTOR IS IN!!!!!!!!!"
—Simu Liu (刘思慕) (@SimuLiu) May 8, 2022
—Wilson Cruz (@wcruz73) May 8, 2022
—David Lammy (@DavidLammy) May 8, 2022
Gatwa is best known for playing gay high school student Eric Effiong in Netflix's comedy series "Sex Education," for which he has garnered multiple Best Actor nominations at the Bafta