BBC hints new Doctor Who might not need a showrunner to replace Russell T Davies
The BBC has announced its criteria for production companies hoping to land the next series of Doctor Who.
BBC may not replace Russell T. Davies as Doctor Who showrunner.
The broadcaster has officially put the long-running sci-fi series out to competitive tender and published a criteria for production companies hoping to take on the beloved franchise.
In the document, the BBC noted: "At this stage of the process, it is not a requirement to formally attach a writer.
"You may want to pitch with writer suggestions, or if you are already working with a writer, please do include them and their ideas/vision in your submission.
"We are not necessarily looking to work to a strict showrunner model and would expect once in production that the series will also use episodic writers."
Russell returned in 2023 for a second stint as showrunner, which ended when the BBC decided to move things in a new direction earlier this year.
The BBC is currently looking for an initial "brief editorial online for a new multi-episode series" which will include "potential for specials".
The idea is for Doctor Who to return in 2028/2029, with a decision to be made on its production in March next year.
The BBC said: "We are commissioning a new flagship series of Doctor Who.
"The series should feel contemporary, and creatively ambitious, whilst remaining true to the values and characteristics that have made Doctor Who a beloved series across generations."
Companies hoping to land the job have been urged to "innovate and surprise" bosses, striking a balance between "high concept science fiction" and "strong emotional narratives".
They continued: "Successful pitches will deliver ‘back of the sofa’ scares, jeopardy and tension, whilst remaining suitable for a broad family audience."
The BBC wants to maintain "distinctively British storytelling", although they are "flexible" in terms of whether the new Doctor Who will be "serialised" or presented as a "story-of-the-week".
Prospective production companies have also been told to "develop at least one companion for the series", who should be "distinctive, authentic characters in their own right".
When it comes to the visuals, the BBC want a series that feels "cinematic, distinctive, and ambitious, capable of competing for audience attention in a highly competitive global market".
They said: "We encourage innovative approaches to production, world-building, visual effects, and storytelling that maximise the scale and emotional impact of the Doctor Who universe."
The BBC urged companies pitching for the job to be "brave".
They concluded: "We are seeking a creative vision that embraces the breadth of what Doctor Who can be and could be.
"Doctor Who is a show that has sparked conversation, taken risks and inspired audiences for decades and we are looking for this series to continue that tradition.
"Be brave, have fun and we look forward to hearing from you."
The BBC announced earlier this year that Doctor Who is being put out to competitive tender, and the planned Christmas special has been cancelled.
The broadcaster said in a statement: "As part of securing the next phase of the show for future generations, and in line with the BBC’s Charter and Agreement requirements, the BBC will put Doctor Who out to competitive tender this year.
"Doctor Who remains an important part of the BBC and this tender underpins the BBC’s continued commitment to Doctor Who ensuring audiences will enjoy the show for years to come.
"After careful consideration, the BBC, Russell T Davies and Bad Wolf have collectively decided not to go ahead with the previously announced Doctor Who Christmas episode.
"This decision was not taken lightly, and we know it will be disappointing for fans, but in order to set the show up for future series, it was decided that rather than bridge the gap with a one off special, we are choosing to push forward to invest in the long-term future of the show which ensures that when the TARDIS lands once more, it does so in all its glory."
