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Matt Smith says Ncuti Gatwa is "made for" Doctor Who role
The actor reiterated his support in a new interview.
BBC Studios/James Pardon/Amanda Edwards/WireImage
- David Craig
Published: Wednesday, 7 February 2024 at 12:36 pm
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Matt Smith has again voiced his resounding support for Ncuti Gatwa's casting in Doctor Who, saying that the former Sex Education talent is "made for" the role of The Doctor.
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The actor, who currently stars in Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon, told the BBC's Today programme that he still pays attention to the latest goings-on in the Whoniverse, despite departing the show a decade ago.
Smith recalled reaching out to Gatwa when he was confirmed to be taking over the TARDIS in summer 2022: "I dropped him a line and said 'well done'. I always keep my eye on Doctor Who. I think [Ncuti’s] great for it, he’s totally made for it."
At the time of the announcement, Smith told press that it was a "sensational bit of casting" and that Gatwa had "something 'other' that that part really needs".
Gatwa made his debut as the Fifteenth Doctor in The Giggle, the last of three 60th anniversary specials, before his era formally kicked off with festive episode The Church on Ruby Road.
Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor in Doctor Who. BBC
While he evidently still follows Doctor Who with some enthusiasm, Smith admitted that he "doesn't really watch" The Crown anymore, after starring in seasons 1 and 2 as a young Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.
"I have not kept up to date with it but I’m proud to be part of it," he continued, adding that creator Peter Morgan is a "brilliant writer".
Read more:
- Doctor Who's Steven Moffat on Ncuti Gatwa: "He's going to be magnificent"
- Doctor Who's Jodie Whittaker says it's "emotional" being referenced in show
The show became increasingly controversial over the course of a six-season run, which tackled the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, as well as the latter's tragic death in a car crash.
Smith is currently appearing on stage at the Duke of York's Theatre in London, where he plays Thomas Stockmann in An Enemy of the People, opposite Jessica Brown Findlay (The Flatshare) and Priyanga Burford (Steeltown Murders).
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Authors
David CraigSenior Drama Writer
David Craig is the Senior Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest and greatest scripted drama and comedy across television and streaming. Previously, he worked at Starburst Magazine, presented The Winter King Podcast for ITVX and studied Journalism at the University of Sheffield.
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