The BBC has given us the clearest indication yet of what the next era of ‘Doctor Who‘ will look like, formally opening the production tender for a new full series which is intended for transmission in 2028/29.
Crucially, this is not a tender for a one-off special or some vague possibility of ‘Doctor Who’ returning at some point in the future. The contract covers a “multi-episodic series (including specials)”, with the BBC also holding an option to extend the deal for a second series.
The 22-page tender document describes the project as a “new flagship series of Doctor Who”, and reveals quite a bit about what the BBC is looking for as it prepares to regenerate the production behind the long-running sci-fi series.
The new series should feel “contemporary, and creatively ambitious”, while still retaining the qualities which have kept ‘Doctor Who’ travelling through time and space for more than 60 years. Producers are being encouraged to come up with a fresh take, with the BBC saying it wants a “new perspective that ensures Doctor Who remains relevant, surprising, brave and inspiring for both long-standing fans and new audiences.”
There are, naturally, some things which are non-negotiable. The Doctor remains at the centre of the series, while bidders will need to develop at least one companion who is a fully realised character with their own relationships, ambitions and story.
Established villains are very much allowed to return, but the BBC specifically warns against becoming too dependent on the show’s existing mythology. Producers will need to demonstrate the original characters, aliens and themes they would bring to the Whoniverse alongside the familiar monsters.
The episodes themselves should mix big science fiction concepts with emotional stories, travelling between historical periods, distant futures, alien worlds and present-day Earth. The BBC also wants plenty of the traditional family-friendly scares and jeopardy, alongside the humour, spectacle and distinctly British storytelling which have always been part of ‘Doctor Who’.
Perhaps one of the most interesting details concerns how the series could actually be run.
The BBC states that it is “not necessarily looking to work to a strict showrunner model”, potentially opening the door to a different creative structure from the Russell T Davies, Steven Moffat and Chris Chibnall eras. That does not mean there will not be a lead creative figure, but the tender makes clear the BBC is flexible. Producers are not currently required to have a writer formally attached, and the eventual series is expected to make use of episodic writers.
The BBC is also keeping the format itself flexible. There is no fixed episode count at this stage, and the broadcaster says it is open to both serialised storytelling and a more traditional story-of-the-week structure.
Those hoping to grab the TARDIS keys will need some fairly serious television experience behind them. A whopping 80% of the initial scored eligibility assessment is based on relevant production experience, including producing returning scripted dramas of at least six episodes which have run beyond three series, handling large-scale productions involving studios, locations and visual effects, working with material suitable for a broad family audience, and managing a global brand.
Production will also remain outside London, with the successful company required to meet at least two of Ofcom’s three regional production criteria. Unsurprisingly given the show’s long association with Cardiff, the BBC says it has a preference for the new production qualifying in Wales.
Whoever wins will be operating on a work-for-hire basis. The BBC retains ownership of ‘Doctor Who’, including the format, title and any new additions developed by the successful producer. The broadcaster also makes clear that it is under no obligation to keep the same production company beyond the contract.
There is an interesting financial detail too. The BBC says the programme has historically benefited from upfront distribution investment and that it expects this to continue. Shortlisted producers will be given further information about the current investment and will hold discussions with the distributor before final interviews. That does not tell us who might ultimately help finance or distribute the next era internationally, but it does suggest outside distribution investment remains part of the BBC’s plan.
The first stage closes at 2pm on Friday, 2nd October 2026, after which eligible companies will be longlisted. They will then have until Friday, 23rd October to submit a three-page editorial proposal covering their vision for the Doctor, companion, locations, sets and up to three story ideas.
Around four or five producers will make the final shortlist in November, with full tenders due in December and interviews taking place in January. The BBC currently plans to make its final decision and announce the successful producer in March 2027.
So, while we still do not know who will be piloting the TARDIS, how many episodes there will be, or exactly what shape the next era will take, we now know something rather more concrete: the BBC is commissioning a proper new multi-episode run of ‘Doctor Who’ for 2028/29, potentially followed by another series, and it is actively looking for someone to pitch a bold new version of the show.
In the BBC’s own closing words to prospective producers: “Be brave, have fun and we look forward to hearing from you.”
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