# Doctor Who Disney+ era production challenges

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/doctor-who-disney-era-production-challenges
> Updated: 2026-10-10T15:00:47.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Showrunner Russell T Davies has criticized the relaunch of ‘Doctor Who’ and its partnership with Disney+, describing the rollout as a “confused launch.” In his memoir, ‘The Queerest of Folk’, Davies attributed these difficulties to Disney+ executives being unfamiliar with the series’ history and lore. He also noted that online leaks “destroyed the profile of the show” and that production delays necessitated the creation of unplanned episodes to accommodate Ncuti Gatwa’s filming schedule.

Following these issues, Davies revealed that plans for a third season under the Disney+ era have been abandoned. He confirmed he will not return for a third stint as showrunner, leaving the production out for tender. The BBC is currently reviewing proposals for the future of the franchise, with reported bidders including Hat Trick Mercurio and World Productions.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-10: Russell T Davies reveals Doctor Who Disney+ era plans abandoned

Russell T Davies reveals that plans for a third season of Doctor Who under Disney+ have been abandoned, as the BBC opens a competitive tender process for the show's future production.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/russell-t-davies-reveals-doctor-who-disney-era-plans-abandoned

### 2026-10-08: Russell T Davies criticizes Doctor Who relaunch and Disney+ partnership

Russell T Davies criticizes the Doctor Who relaunch and Disney+ partnership, citing a “confused launch” and the impact of online leaks on the show's profile.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/russell-t-davies-criticizes-doctor-who-relaunch-and-disney-partnership

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Cite as: Doctor Who Disney+ era production challenges. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/doctor-who-disney-era-production-challenges