Jodie Whittaker announced as the first female Doctor!

After much speculation, The BBC today announced actress Jodie Whittaker as the first ever woman to be cast in the titular role on 'Doctor Who', who will be the Thirteenth Time Lord and take over from Peter Capaldi (who leaves the show in this year’s upcoming Christmas Special).

New head writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall (who takes over from Steven Moffat on the next series) says: "After months of lists, conversations, auditions, recalls, and a lot of secret-keeping, we’re excited to welcome Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor. I always knew I wanted the Thirteenth Doctor to be a woman and we're thrilled to have secured our number one choice. Her audition for The Doctor simply blew us all away. Jodie is an in-demand, funny, inspiring, super-smart force of nature and will bring loads of wit, strength and warmth to the role. The Thirteenth Doctor is on her way."

About the news, Whittaker herself says: "I’m beyond excited to begin this epic journey - with Chris and with every Whovian on this planet. It’s more than an honour to play the Doctor. It means remembering everyone I used to be, while stepping forward to embrace everything the Doctor stands for: hope. I can’t wait."

And Twelfth Doctor Peter Capaldi says: "Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker’s work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm. She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She’s going to be a fantastic Doctor."

Watch the announcement video below...