Doctor Who faces potential long hiatus amid BBC production tender

Former Doctor Who writer Mark Gatiss has expressed skepticism regarding the future of the long-running BBC series, suggesting the show may face a lengthy hiatus. This follows the BBC's decision to put the production rights out to competitive tender.

The series is currently in a state of transition following the departure of lead actor Ncuti Gatwa, showrunner Russell T Davies, and production partners including Bad Wolf and Disney. Previous plans, such as a scheduled 2026 Christmas special, have reportedly been abandoned.

Gatiss noted that the BBC faced a similar situation when the show was cancelled in 1989. Despite official commitments to continue the series through the 1990s, the tender process at that time resulted in a long period of inactivity. While Gatiss does not believe the show is gone forever, he suggests that the current process may not lead to a swift return.