*Spoiler*

The finale of the fifteenth season of the highly acclaimed sci-fi series, Doctor Who, sees an emotional transition from Ncuti Gatwa (Sex Education, Barbie) to familiar face Billie Piper (Wednesday, Penny Dreadful), who had played Rose within the series. According to Comicbook, Gatwa has explained that his run was always meant to be for two seasons and furthers explains on social media ,”It was always the plan to do this amount of seasons, because it’s a role that demands a lot of you, physically and emotionally and mentally.”

Within the finale, Gatwa’s Doctor uses the last of his powers in order to turn the world back to normal, while meeting his previous reincarnation along the way, played by Jodie Whittaker (Attack on the Block, Venus). According to Comicbook, Gatwa further delves about the role in the interview and states,” The actors playing the doctor are only actors playing the doctor; unfortunately, we are mere mortals. I would love to have the energy and the youth to be able to do this full time for the rest of my life, but my knees are telling me it’s time.”

Gatwa further added in a separate interview with BBC,” 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. 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.”

According to Comicbook, with the reason for Gatwa’s departure becoming clear to the fandom, one question remains: how will the series progress? Regarding Piper’s position, she gave a little teaser, stating, “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.” She added, “So, to be allowed 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.”

While await on further news surrounding Piper’s future roles, fans can rewatch the seasons of Ncuti’s adventure of Doctor Who on Disney+.