Billie Piper Replaces Ncuti Gatwa as Doctor Who in Finale Regeneration

Ncuti Gatwa has officially stepped down as the 15th Doctor in the long-running BBC science-fiction series Doctor Who, with the character regenerating in the two-part season finale titled The Reality War. Gatwa's departure was marked by a dramatic battle with the Rani, culminating in a sacrifice to save a young girl, after which his Doctor transformed into Billie Piper, who was revealed as the new Doctor. Piper, who originally played the Doctor's companion Rose Tyler alongside Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant, becomes the second woman and the first person to appear as both companion and Doctor in the series. Showrunner Russell T Davies praised Gatwa's performance, calling it an absolute joy, while Gatwa expressed deep gratitude for the experience and the fans. Piper expressed excitement about returning to the Whoniverse and hinted at future developments to be revealed. The finale was broadcast simultaneously on BBC One, in cinemas across the UK, and streamed internationally, with the BBC taking steps to keep the ending a secret prior to release.