Disney breaks up with BBC’s Doctor Who: How the ‘Woke’ rebrand lost its magic
Disney
In a stunning turn of events that has left fans across the world both shocked and divided, Disney+ has officially ended its partnership with the BBC’s Doctor Who after just two seasons. The decision follows disappointing ratings and criticism over what some viewers described as the show’s “woke overhaul” — a shift that has sparked fierce debate about the direction of one of Britain’s longest-running TV franchises.
The partnership, which began in 2022, was initially hailed as a groundbreaking deal to transform Doctor Who into a “global entertainment powerhouse,” reaching audiences in more than 150 countries. Backed by Disney’s financial muscle, the BBC hoped to inject new energy into the 61-year-old series, with reports suggesting an average budget of £10 million per episode.
Yet, after two flashy seasons starring Sex Education actor Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor, the collaboration has come to an abrupt end. Disney confirmed it will not participate in producing the next season, citing lackluster audience figures and declining interest among U.S. viewers.
Ratings Crash and Fan Backlash
Industry data revealed that the most recent series suffered a dip of over 1.5 million viewers per episode compared to Jodie Whittaker’s era. U.S. reception was no better, with insiders describing the numbers as “underwhelming.”
Critics argued that the show’s creative direction under showrunner Russell T Davies leaned too heavily into identity politics — a move some labelled as “virtue signaling.” In response, cast member Varada Sethu defended the direction, stating that “resistance often means we’re challenging what needs to be changed.”
Davies, meanwhile, brushed off the criticism, saying: “Diversity isn’t a statement — it’s the future.”
Behind the Curtain: Disney’s Quiet Exit
Though speculation about Disney’s withdrawal had circulated for months, confirmation came this week when the BBC announced that future Doctor Who projects would proceed independently. BBC’s Director of Drama, Lindsay Salt, expressed gratitude to Disney+, calling them “terrific global partners” while assuring fans that the series “is not going anywhere.”
The BBC is now focusing on the upcoming Christmas 2026 special, to be written by Russell T Davies himself. A spin-off titled The War Between the Land and the Sea — co-produced during the Disney era — will premiere later this year, featuring Being Human actor Russell Tovey.
Also in development is a Doctor Who animated series aimed at preschool audiences for CBeebies, signaling that the BBC still sees value in expanding the brand.
The Doctor Regenerates Again
Ncuti Gatwa’s departure earlier this year added fuel to the uncertainty surrounding the franchise. After fulfilling his two-season contract, Gatwa cited emotional and physical exhaustion, calling the role “incredibly demanding.” His regeneration scene — unexpectedly transforming into Billie Piper’s Rose Tyler — shocked fans and left many wondering if Piper would officially take over as the Sixteenth Doctor.
While the BBC has remained tight-lipped about the next Doctor’s identity, insiders suggest the next iteration will aim to “reconnect with traditional fans while keeping modern audiences engaged.”
The Future of the TARDIS
Despite the turbulence, the BBC insists Doctor Who remains one of its most treasured properties. “The Doctor isn’t disappearing,” Salt reassured. “The TARDIS will always have a home at the BBC.”
For now, fans can only wait until Christmas 2026 to see where the Doctor’s journey leads next — without the backing of Disney’s global reach, but perhaps with a renewed sense of creative independence.
FAQs
1. Why did Disney end its partnership with the BBC over Doctor Who?
Disney reportedly withdrew due to poor viewership figures and diminishing engagement in the U.S. market.
2. Was Doctor Who cancelled?
No. The BBC confirmed the show will continue, with a Christmas 2026 special already in the works.
3. Who will play the next Doctor?
The BBC hasn’t announced the next Doctor, though fans speculate Billie Piper’s Rose Tyler may take the lead.
4. Why was the show called “woke”?
Some critics accused the recent series of prioritizing identity politics over storytelling. The show’s team, however, defended its inclusive vision.
5. What’s next for Doctor Who?
Aside from the 2026 Christmas special, a spin-off (The War Between the Land and the Sea) and a CBeebies animation are on the way.
