‘Doctor Who’ Leaves Disney Plus — BBC Confirms 2026 Christmas Special and Future Plans

The BBC has confirmed that Doctor Who will move forward with a new Christmas special in 2026, following Disney+’s exit from its two-season global distribution partnership. The announcement comes after months of speculation surrounding the show’s future, especially following Ncuti Gatwa’s departure as the Doctor earlier this year. Series veteran Russell T Davies will pen the upcoming special, reaffirming the BBC’s commitment to the long-running sci-fi franchise.

The BBC also teased future series plans, assuring fans that the TARDIS will remain central to its programming.

Doctor Who will return to the BBC with a Christmas special in 2026, written by Russell T Davies, following the end of its two-season partnership with Disney+. The decision was announced by BBC Drama Director Lindsay Salt on October 28, 2025, in London, citing the broadcaster’s continued dedication to the series. The move comes after Ncuti Gatwa’s departure and amid uncertainty about the next Doctor.

Partnership Exit and Production Updates

• Disney+ will no longer co-distribute Doctor Who after 2025
• The 2026 Christmas special is titled TBA, written by Russell T Davies
• BBC confirms the Doctor will remain part of its core drama slate
• Spinoff The War Between the Land and the Sea will still air on Disney+ and BBC
• Animated series in development for CBeebies, BBC’s children’s channel

The Season 2 finale saw Gatwa’s Doctor regenerate into Billie Piper, though her role as the next Doctor remains unconfirmed.

Quotes and Reactions

BBC’s Lindsay Salt stated:

“We’d like to thank Disney+ for being terrific global partners… The BBC remains fully committed to Doctor Who.”

Billie Piper shared:

“To step back on that TARDIS one more time was just something I couldn’t refuse.”

Fans online have expressed excitement over Davies’ return and curiosity about the next Doctor’s identity.

Franchise Stability and Fan Engagement

The end of the Disney+ partnership marks a strategic shift for Doctor Who, returning full creative control to the BBC. Russell T Davies’ continued involvement provides stability, while the Christmas special offers a bridge to future seasons. The regeneration twist involving Billie Piper has reignited fan interest, potentially boosting viewership and merchandise sales.

The BBC’s multi-platform approach, including spinoffs and animation, signals long-term investment in the Whoniverse.

What’s Next: Casting and Series Renewal

• Doctor Who Christmas Special 2026: Premieres December 25, 2026
• Next Doctor: Casting announcement expected in early 2026
• Series 3 Renewal: BBC plans to confirm in Q1 2026
• Spinoff Release: The War Between the Land and the Sea airs late 2025
• Animated Series: Launches on CBeebies in mid-2026

Fans should monitor BBC and official Doctor Who channels for updates.