Capaldi on Doctor Who: 'Just a monster show'

Peter Capaldi, who embodied the Doctor from 2013 to 2017, recently shared his perspective on the dedicated "Doctor Who" fanbase. He admitted to finding it peculiar how seriously some fans approach the long-running science fiction series, likening his childhood view of it to merely a "monster show." Capaldi voiced his approval for the casting decisions that followed his tenure, including Jodie Whittaker and Ncuti Gatwa.

Capaldi stated that these contemporary casting choices "reflect its times and it's a good thing in the world." Whittaker, the first woman to play the Doctor, and Gatwa, who succeeded her, both acknowledged the immense significance of their roles and the passionate global audience. Whittaker recounted her departure in October 2022 as an emotional experience, while Gatwa, who exited in 2025, spoke of the profound honor and eventual bittersweet farewell to the iconic role.