Chris Chibnall, the former "Doctor Who" showrunner who ran the series between Jodie Whittaker's tenure, has spoken publicly for the first time since the BBC announced the show would be put out to competitive tender, effectively pausing production. He called the decision "definitely disappointing" but expressed hope that new custodians would eventually revive the series for a new generation of viewers. His comments follow a turbulent period for the show, which saw Russell T Davies's second stint as showrunner end amid a troubled partnership with Disney and a divisive exit for star Ncuti Gatwa.

Speaking to BBC Radio Wales, Chibnall said he "probably had the same reaction as everybody else" on hearing the news, calling it "a shame that it's not going to be on for a while." He voiced particular sympathy for young viewers who might miss out on having "their" Doctor, comparing the experience to a first love, while expressing confidence that the BBC has "good plans to bring it back." The BBC has said the decision was "not taken lightly," and it also emerged that a previously promised 2026 Christmas special and search for a new lead actor had not, in fact, been in the works.