The Doctor Is Out

Matt Smith, the eleventh actor to play the role of Doctor Who in the 50-year-old BBC show, is leaving the series. While it was not stated who made the decision for Smith to leave, the actor had stated in recent interviews that he would be returning for the next season.

Smith departure comes shortly after the BBC added a new executive producer to the show.Brian Minchin, a script editor on several Doctor Who episodes and producer of Torchwood: Miracle ,Day and The Sarah Jane Adventures was named as a new executive producer. The addition of Minchin and departure of Matt Smith, combined with horrible reviews and negative fan reation to Steven Moffat’s tenure on the show, give the appearance that the BBC is making major changes to their flagship show.

Smith will appear in the 50th anniversary special and the 2013 Christmas special before handing the reins over to a new actor.

“Doctor Who has been the most brilliant experience for me as an actor and a bloke, and that largely is down to the cast, crew and fans of the show,” said Smith. I’m incredibly grateful to all the cast and crew who work tirelessly every day, to realise all the elements of the show and deliver Doctor Who to the audience. Many of them have become good friends and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved over the last four years.”