Jodie Whittaker is the Thirteenth Doctor

​The BBC have officially announced that Jodie Whittaker is the Thirteenth Doctor, and the very first female to take to the role. 

Whittaker, 35, has previously worked alongside upcoming showrunner Chris Chibnall as well as Tenth Doctor David Tennant in one of her better known roles as Beth Latimer in the detective drama, Broadchurch.

Speaking on becoming the next Doctor, Whittaker 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!" 

​New Showrunner, Chris Chibnall, says: "I always knew I wanted the 13th 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 13th Doctor is on her way." 
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Current Doctor, Peter Capaldi, also shared his thoughts: "Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker's work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm.
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"She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She's going to be a fantastic Doctor." 

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​The announcement was made with a trailer on BBC One following the Wimbledon Men's Final, and she will claim the TARDIS keys in this year's Christmas Special in what will also be Capaldi's final episode. 

​Her debut will take place on Christmas Day, and Jodie Whittaker's first full series will air in 2018. 

Watch the full reveal video below

Story Credit Doctor Who 24/7