Billie Piper announced as new Doctor Who as she replaces Ncuti Gatwa in BBC series
DOCTOR Who has delivered a massive shock to fans with a familiar face returning – with Billie Piper making her comeback, only this time as the Doctor themselves.
Billie is a fan favourite on the long-running BBC series, helping reboot the show as companion Rose Tyler to Christopher Ecclestone's Ninth Doctor back in 2005.
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Ncuti Gatwa has said goodbye to Doctor Who with a finale regeneration
Credit: PA
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Billie Piper has made her triumphant comeback to the show as the new Doctor
Credit: PA
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As Rose Tyler, Billie travelled the cosmos with Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant's Doctors
Credit: Alamy
Her character remained with the character as he regenerated into David Tennant's Tenth Doctor, before being trapped in a parallel world.
However, Billie, and Rose, have made several appearances throughout the show since.
In a massive shock on tonight's finale, The Reality War, Ncuti Gatwa - the 15th Doctor said goodbye to the role after two series and regenerated.
The Doctor faced off against enemy the Rani in the latest bid to save the world.
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However, the ultimate sacrifice came in a bid to save the life of a little girl.
As yellow particles eclipsed him, he transformed into a very familiar face – Rose – marking her turn as the 16th Doctor.
She then mumbled a quick "Oh Hello!" before the series ended.
Speaking of her return, Billie said: "It's no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that TARDIS one more time was just something I couldn't refuse, but who, how, why and when, you'll just have to wait and see."
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Speaking of his decision to leave, Ncuti said: 'You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it.
"This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever.
"There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe."
Doctor Who's wokest ever lead star Ncuti Gatwa axed after just two series with show set to be paused after ratings nosedive
"The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show and I can't thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in, and making this such a touching experience," Ncuti continued.
"I've loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have.
"I'll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.'
Speaking of the surprise twist, Russell T Davies adds: "Billie once changed the whole of television, back in 2005, and now she's done it again!
"It's an honour and a hoot to welcome her back to the TARDIS, but quite how and why and who is a story yet to be told. After 62 years, the Doctor's adventures are only just beginning!"
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Billie first appeared as afn favourite companion Rose in 2005
Credit: Alamy
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Ncuti has thanked fans for his time on the series.
Credit: PA
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