Doctor Who’s future remains uncertain, as a prominent insider reveals the show could stay off-air for an extended period. Tom Spilsbury, a journalist with deep connections to the series, suggests that fans may need to adjust their expectations. 
Spilsbury, who previously edited Doctor Who Magazine for over a decade, has an insider’s perspective on the production and development of the show.
Writing on Gallifrey Base, Spilsbury shared his thoughts on the show’s hiatus and what it means for the Doctor’s return. While he believes Doctor Who will eventually return, he stressed that nothing is confirmed yet. ‘As of now, nothing is commissioned, and nothing is guaranteed,’ Spilsbury explained. His insight reflects the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the show, compounded by the delay in news about the renewal of the series’ co-funding deal with Disney.
The challenge of getting Doctor Who back on screen is further complicated by the current state of the television industry. Spilsbury notes that production is moving slower than usual, and the process of securing funding could take time. If Disney doesn’t renew the deal before its option expires, the BBC will need to explore other potential partners. ‘It may take more than one partner just to raise the money needed,’ Spilsbury suggests. The era of solo backers for major productions is over, and the show’s future may depend on finding multiple partners willing to invest in its return.
While there are still hopes for the Doctor’s return, Spilsbury warns that it could be a lengthy wait. ‘Time will tell,’ he says, adding that a possible reimagining of the series could be a good thing. If the hiatus extends further, fans might see a fresh approach to the show with new creative leadership. Spilsbury speculates that it could be five or six years before anything new airs. This echoes the words of Russell T Davies, who once said that Doctor Who may pause for a time until a new generation takes over.
Spilsbury also addressed the current finale of the show, which saw Billie Piper’s return and Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor leave with a reshot ending. He agreed that the finale might have complicated the show’s return but believes that by the time the show returns, the passage of time will allow for a fresh start. ‘By the time new episodes are announced, enough time will have passed that everyone will expect a clean slate,’ he concluded.
In the meantime, the BBC is planning an animated spin-off aimed at children, though it’s unclear whether it will feature The Doctor as a main character. The fate of Doctor Who remains in limbo as fans wait for updates on the show’s future.