Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor will explore his queerness

While the Doctor’s sexuality has never been explicitly stated, it was touched on in last year’s first 60th anniversary episode, when David Tennant – briefly reprising the role – said he found Isaac Newton “hot”.

Now, with Sex Education star Gatwa set to step into the Tardis for his first full season next month, the Doctor will be played by an out queer actor for the first time.

Speaking to Variety, showrunner Davies commented on whether that means that the Doctor’s sexuality will be firmly addressed.

“You’re talking about someone who does have a lightness and a joy about him that, to me, chimes with queer energy,” he replied, suggesting that previous incarnations of the Time Lord “weren’t exactly the straightest men”.

As to how the Doctor’s “queer energy” will present itself, Davies continued: “It’s very rarely driving the story vehemently, but you will see moments exploring it. We’re not delivering a neutered Doctor.”