Russell T Davies praises Ncuti Gatwa over his showstopping Doctor Who audition
It’s A Sin creator Russell T Davies has opened up about Ncuti Gatwa’s electric Doctor Who audition. Back in May, the Sex Education star was announced as the new Time Lord for Doctor Who’s upcoming season.
The role was previously held by Jodie Whittaker, who started in three series and numerous specials. “There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling.
A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited, and of course a little bit scared,” Gatwa shared in a statement. “This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care.” With the new series of Doctor Who around the corner, Davies gave further insight into Gatwa’s “thunderbolt” audition in a statement for the actor’s Time 100 Next profile. “Ncuti Gatwa’s creation of Eric Effiong in Netflix’s Sex Education went soaring around the world.
The character of the gay sidekick is meant to stay in the shadows. Not Eric! He strutted in, stole the spotlight, and I think a gracious, awestruck cast simply stood back and allowed him the room,” he explained. “I’d watched him onscreen, and thought I had the measure of him, until he walked into the room for Doctor Who audition.
