Peter Capaldi Named New Doctor Who!

Matt Smith is out - and Peter Capaldi is officially in.

Following the announcement this summer that Smith will leave the iconic BBC series after this year's Christmas special, producers revealed during a TV special that Capaldi will inhabit the famous character in 2014, becoming the 12th person to take control of the TARDIS overall.

Capaldi, 55, rose to fame in the UK via the sitcom The Thick of It. He also is coming off a role in the Brad Pitt movie World War Z.

“Being asked to play The Doctor is an amazing privilege," the actor said in a statement. "Like the Doctor himself I find myself in a state of utter terror and delight. I can't wait to get started."

Adds producer Steven Moffat:  “It's an incendiary combination: one of the most talented actors of his generation is about to play the best part on television. Peter Capaldi is in the TARDIS!”

So, what do you think of Peter Capaldi as Doctor Who?

Carissa Pavlica is the managing editor and a staff writer and critic for TV Fanatic. She's a member of the Critic's Choice Association, enjoys mentoring writers, conversing with cats, and passionately discussing the nuances of television and film with anyone who will listen. Follow her on X and email her here at TV Fanatic.