Lydia West was never in the running for 'Doctor Who'.

Lydia West was never in the running to play Doctor Who

Lydia West was never in the running to play Doctor Who

The 28-year-old actress had been long-rumoured to be taking on the role of the titular Time Lord on the BBC sci-fi series, but she's claimed she was never under consideration and is "so happy" that Ncuti Gatwa will be taking control of the TARDIS after Jodie Whittaker exits later this year.

Asked whether she had was ever in the running to play The Doctor, she told RadioTimes.com: "I wasn't, no. I was not. But I'm so happy for Ncuti.

"I think he's absolutely brilliant. I can't wait to see it. Whatever Russell touches, it's just amazing, as we know.

"I think Ncuti's brilliant, he's just the perfect successor, so I'm thrilled."

Other stars rumoured to be taking on the iconic part included pop star Olly Alexander, and current Doctor Jodie had even admitted she would like 'It's a Sin' actress Lydia to take over.

After much speculation, it was announced on Sunday (08.05.22) that 'Sex Education' actor Ncuti will be playing the 14th Doctor.

He said: "There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared.

"This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care. I will endeavour my utmost to do the same."

Ncuti also explained that while he just wants to bring "himself" to the role, he is unsure of how he will follow in the footsteps of his predecessors like David Tennant, Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi.

Asked what he would bring to the role, he added: "Just myself, I think actors are incredible people that put so much of themselves into roles and so each one is going to be really different.

"Each Doctor that’s gone before has been so incredibly talented and so incredibly brilliant, I don’t know how I’m going to follow in their footsteps but I’m going to try my best!"

Tagged in