Continuation of 'Doctor Who' Possible with or without Disney's Involvement
Chillin' with the Doctor: Here's the Skinny on the Future of 'Doctor Who'
With the next season of Doctor Who just around the corner, whispers about its destiny have been brewing. Talk of Disney pulling the plug on the beloved series has been rampant, but hold onto your sonic screwdrivers, Whovians. A recent report from the UK's The Daily Mirror suggests that the end might not be nigh for our beloved Time Lord after all.
Despite rumors suggesting that Doctor Who could be shelved or worst, it seems that plans are underway to ensure the show's continuation—regardless of Disney's signing off on their international co-funding deal for the series on Disney+. While Disney movers and shakers have enthusiastically backed the show, they've also mentioned that any renewal of the funding support would hinge on the show's ratings after the current season wraps up.
In a break from our normal Who sob-fests in 2026, the spinoff UNIT series The War Between Land and Sea is slated to fill the void for fans. And if you're wondering who'll be steering the TARDIS after the UNIT jaunt, then fasten your seatbelts, because Russell T Davies is set to keep on guiding the show with scripts already in the works for two more seasons.
Now, let's talk money. A big chunk of Disney's estimated £10 million per episode might have been used to jazz up Doctor Who's visuals for streaming in 4K. If the show ditches Disney's financial support and goes back to being BBC's responsibility, the show's technical costs could likely see a sharp decrease. Bye bye, 4K wonders! BBC can stream in high-definition at 2K, so no worries there.
So brace yourselves, Whovians, as we wait for some definitive info on Doctor Who's future. While Disney's decision on the funding deal is eagerly awaited, it seems the Time Lord's fate might not be as dire as we initially feared. As the current series counts down its final three episodes, let's stay hopeful that the Good Doctor will be back for more adventures in time and space.
Oh, and if you're yearning for more scoop on the Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, and DC universes, or everything that's in store for the future of Doctor Who, make sure to check out what's coming next.
[Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what's next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.]
Bonus Insights:
- Despite the uncertainty surrounding Disney's decision on funding for Doctor Who, the show's future remains optimistic with the potential for growth and development.
- If Disney decides to continue funding Doctor Who, it could lead to increased resources and global reach. However, changes in creative direction or production practices might be in store, as Disney may bring its own production standards and preferences to the table.
- If Disney opt-outs of the funding deal, Doctor Who will likely continue on the BBC, possibly leading to a hiatus or changes in production and creative direction.
- The upcoming spinoff The War Between Land and Sea will help fill the void for Who fans in 2026.
- Russell T Davies has signed on to steer the ship as showrunner with scripts already written for at least two more seasons.
Io9 and Gizmodo have reported that the future of 'Doctor Who' is shrouded in optimism, despite Disney's decision on funding. If Disney renews its support, the show could experience growth and reach a global audience. However, changes in creative direction might be likely. On the other hand, if Disney opts out, 'Doctor Who' may continue on the BBC, possibly leading to a hiatus or changes in production and creative direction. In 2026, the spinoff UNIT series 'The War Between Land and Sea' is set to entertain fans until 'Doctor Who' returns.
