Big changes are afoot in the world of Doctor Who, with current show-runner Steven Moffat leaving after next year's run of episodes. But before he departs, he's introducing a new companion in the show, and she's been unveiled as Bill, played by Pearl Mackie. Check her out in action in the specially created trailer below.
Announced during, of all things, the FA Cup semi-final (not the biggest crossover audience we'd think, but on Who's usual Saturday and with a large viewership, which makes sense), Mackie is a London-born actor who has appeared in TV's Doctors (no relation) and the film Svengali. She's currently to be found treading the boards in the West End production of The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night Time.
"I'm incredibly excited to be joining the Doctor Who family," she tells the Beeb. "It's such an extraordinary British institution, I couldn't be prouder to call the TARDIS my home. Peter Capaldi is such a brilliant actor, and his Doctor is such a wacky and wonderful character, I can't wait to see what adventures are in store for him and Bill throughout time and space."
As for Bill, Mackie describes her as "cool, strong, sharp, a little bit vulnerable with a bit of geekiness thrown in". From the looks of the trailer, she's certainly got a smart, funny nature. And current Doctor Peter Capaldi is happy to have her on the team: "It is a genuine delight to welcome Pearl Mackie to Doctor Who. A fine, fine actress with a wonderful zest and charm, she's a refreshing addition to the TARDIS and will bring a universe of exciting new possibilities to The Doctor's adventures."
The next season is kicking off this year, but won't hit the air until 2017. Chris Chibnall will take over running the show for its 2018 run onwards.