The time has come for Whovians to welcome a new Doctor to the show’s spectacular sci-fi universe. After almost four years of serving the fandom a joyful portrayal of the Thirteenth Doctor, Jodie Whittaker is stepping down from the role.
Whittaker Departs From The Doctor
As a result, USA online sportsbooks are already inviting fans to try their hand at guessing the new Doctor. However, the selection process is lengthy and could take over a year.
The news first broke in July of 2021, when the BBC confirmed the departure of both Whittaker and showrunner Chris Chibnall. Many have speculated that the duo’s departure has to do with depleted ratings and gendered criticism.
However, Chibnall clarified that the two had made a pact in 2017 to leave after three seasons. He commented on the subject, saying,
“Jodie and I made a ‘three series and out’ pact with each other at the start of this once-in-a-lifetime blast. So now our shift is done, and we’re handing back the Tardis keys.”
Chibnall will be replaced with Doctor Who’s 2005 showrunner, Russell T. Davies.
One Last Dance In The Tardis
Whittaker’s final performance as the Thirteenth Doctor is set to air this year with a trio of TV specials. Viewers got their first glimpse at what’s ahead with a New Year’s Eve special titled ‘Eve of the Daleks.’
The next episode in the series will have an Easter debut and, according to Doctor Who star John Bishop, “there’s something big about to happen.”
But Sunday’s special won’t be the last you see of Whittaker. The season finale will air come Autumn 2022.
Fans have little indication of which direction the series will go, as the most important position remains vacant. One thing we do know is that the show must go on.
USA Sportsbook Odds Debut
In light of the next regeneration, USA entertainment odds have appeared to predict the next Doctor.
Who Will Be Cast As The Next Doctor Who, After Jodie Whittaker?
- David Tennant -150
- Lydia West +400
- Michael Sheen +600
- Olly Alexander +600
- Omari Douglas +600
- Michaela Coel +1000
- Hugh Grant +1600
- Jo Martin +1600
As a Doctor Who fan, it is hard to imagine that David Tennant would return as the Fourteenth Doctor. Despite being one of my favorite portrayals, the return of Tenant would completely disrupt the show’s continuity.
Similarly, the return of Matt Smith would be exciting and he has even indicated that in interviews. Nonetheless, I think the show’s writers would agree that it’s better to keep cycling through new leads. It’s one of Doctor Who’s many charms.
Where There’s Risk, There’s Hope
And while several critically acclaimed actresses are named on the betting lines, they aren’t a likely pick. Many accused the show of becoming too ‘woke’ and affirmed that the Doctor was always meant to be played by a man.
These sentiments have been reflected in the show’s ratings, which have been cut in half since the Thirteenth Doctor’s 2018 debut.
As far down as he is on the lines, I think Hugh Grant would make a cheeky Fourteenth Doctor and could revitalize the series.
To set your wager on Doctor Who odds, head over to one of our recommended USA mobile sportsbooks to get started.
Odds Courtesy of Bovada
Source: BBC, Digital Spy