After months of rumours and questions around the future of Doctor Who since the airing of The Reality War in May 2025, the BBC has come out with news around its next steps in the future of the franchise. Namely, they have confirmed that their long-running science fiction series will be put out to a competitive tender this yeare.
The move forms part of the BBC’s planning for the next phase of the show and is being made in line with the broadcaster’s Charter and Agreement requirements. While details of the tender have not yet been shared, the BBC says Doctor Who remains an important part of its future plans and that they are committed to “ensuring audiences will enjoy the show for years to come”.
As part of this shift, the BBC, Russell T Davies and Bad Wolf have collectively decided not to proceed with the previously announced Doctor Who Christmas episode. The one-off special was originally expected to bridge the gap for fans, but the parties have instead chosen to focus on longer-term investment in the series.
The BBC acknowledged that the decision may be disappointing for viewers, but said the priority is now to prepare Doctor Who for future series and ensure the show returns with the scale expected of it. A previously announced Doctor Who animated series for CBeebies also remains in production.
The BBC has also confirmed that it retains all intellectual property rights in Doctor Who. BBC Studios will continue to oversee global distribution for the series, along with licensing, consumer products, digital projects and immersive experiences on behalf of the BBC.
