We’ve got our first glimpse at the first Christmas Day Doctor Who special since 2017: The Church on Ruby Road will be Ncuti Gatwa’s first full episode as the Fifteenth Doctor, and will also introduce Millie Gibson as new companion, Ruby Sunday.
Airing on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, the episode sees the Doctor come face-to-face with the mythical and mysterious goblins as his life collides with Ruby Sunday.
Here’s the synopsis:
Long ago on Christmas Eve, a baby was abandoned in the snow. Today, Ruby Sunday meets the Doctor, stolen babies, goblins and perhaps the secret of her birth.
Little is known about Ruby Sunday as she was abandoned on Christmas Eve as a baby. Now living with her mum, Carla and grandmother, Cherry, her world is about to be turned upside down when she encounters the Doctor and the two set off on their first adventure together.
Alongside Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson is Davina McCall who will be playing herself (she previously voiced the Big Brother sections in Bad Wolf in 2005) as she joins the cast alongside Michelle Greenidge as Ruby’s mum, Carla; Angela Wynter as Ruby’s grandmother, Cherry; and Anita Dobson as Mrs Flood.
Davina McCall said:
“It is beyond an honour to be asked to appear in not only Doctor Who but also Ncuti’s first episode as the new Doctor. It was such an extraordinary experience and Russell has written you all a Christmas delight! Now I just can’t wait for everyone to see it!”
Russell T Davies, showrunner, adds
“From Day One in this job, I wanted Doctor Who back on Christmas Day! And with Ncuti, Millie, Davina and the Goblin King, I hope it’s a feast for all the family!”
Charlotte Moore, BBC’s Chief Content Officer, says:
“This year’s Christmas line-up on the BBC is an extravaganza of must watch shows! Join us as we welcome a brand new Doctor and wave goodbye to our beloved sitcom Ghosts. Alongside a spectacular range of entertainment, drama, comedy and factual programming across the festive fortnight. It’s essential viewing for everyone as we bring friends and families together across the UK.”
And don’t those photos make you excited for Doctor Who at Christmas again?!
The Church on Ruby Road will air on BBC1 and Disney+ on 25th December 2023.
