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Jed Mercurio Eyes Doctor Who Takeover
7 Oct
Summary
- Showrunner Jed Mercurio is leading a bid to produce Doctor Who.
- Multiple production companies are competing to produce the iconic series.
- A proposal suggests moving Doctor Who production to Scotland.
The future of the iconic British sci-fi series Doctor Who is at a crossroads as multiple production companies have submitted bids to take over its stewardship. Leading the charge is Jed Mercurio, the acclaimed showrunner of 'Line of Duty,' through his company Hat Trick Mercurio (HTM). Mercurio, a known science fiction enthusiast, has reportedly attached himself as an executive producer to HTM's proposal.
Competition is fierce, with other major players like World Productions also submitting separate plans to reimagine the Time Lord's adventures. Notably, STV Studios has put forth an ambitious bid, in conjunction with Screen Scotland, to potentially move the entire production north of the English border to Scotland for its next season. This move aligns with the BBC's stated requirement for Doctor Who to be filmed outside of London.
The BBC has set a deadline of the past Friday for these submissions, and is now evaluating the competing visions for the show's regeneration. This process comes after showrunner Russell T Davies and producer Bad Wolf concluded their involvement. Interviews with the bidders are scheduled for January, with a contract award expected in March. The BBC has indicated that producers should outline a vision to return the series to screens in 2028-29, ensuring its continued relevance and appeal to both long-time fans and new audiences.
