Paul McGann to return as the Eighth Doctor in new Doctor Who spin-off series

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Paul McGann is set to make a comeback as the Eighth Doctor in a new Doctor Who spin-off series (Image: BBC)
Paul McGann is set to make a comeback as the Eighth Doctor in a new Doctor Who spin-off series (Image: BBC)

Paul McGann is set to make a comeback as the Eighth Doctor in a new Doctor Who spin-off series.

The 63-year-old actor had the keys to the TARDIS for the 1996 television film, a co-production between BBC Worldwide and Universal Studios, which was an attempt to revive the sci-fi show after it was cancelled in 1989.

His incarnation of the Time Lord built up a loyal fan base since due to the audio adventures he has voiced. He has had two just TV appearances in the 50th anniversary special and a cameo in Jodie Whittaker’s final outing The Power of the Doctor.

The show is about to enter a new era with Russell T Davies – the man who rebooted it in 2005 – at the helm and Disney co-producing with the BBC and spin-offs are being planned to increase the Whoniverse.

Paul McGann to return as the Eighth Doctor in new Doctor Who spin-off series eiqrridedidzxinvPaul McGann is set to make a comeback as the Eighth Doctor in a new Doctor Who spin-off series (BBC)

The spin offs will work in the same way that Disney created series for Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe that stream on Disney+. A source said: “Russell likes the idea of bringing back McGann with his own set of episodes in the TARDIS. Disney are on board as they want more original content and want to fully exploit the franchise as they know how big it could become.”

Everything we know about new sci-fi series The Power so far - from cast to plotEverything we know about new sci-fi series The Power so far - from cast to plot

Other possible spin-offs include a series on UNIT, the Earth based military wing that works with the Doctor to defend the planet and a villain anthology.

Doctor Who returns later this month with three specials celebrating the 60th anniversary with David Tennant back as the Doctor and Catherine Tate as Donna Noble. Ncuti Gatwa is then taking control of the TARDIS in 2024.

Speaking in an interview recently, Paul said he would be interested, adding: “I finally got to be in an episode. The fans tell me that they hope there will be a chance of some more, that would be nice. I would be well up for it.”

A spokesman for Doctor Who declined to comment.

Mark Jefferies

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