Disney+ adds BBC’s Doctor Who to its roster of sci-fi franchises

SVOD platform Disney+ has secured the exclusive global streaming rights to iconic sci-fi series Doctor Who, in a far reaching deal with BBC Studios. Under the terms of the deal, the platform will stream all future series of the cult show outside the UK and Ireland, with Ncuti Gatwa set to take over as the eponymous Doctor in 2023.

Alisa Bowen

Alisa Bowen, president of Disney+, commented: “We’re excited by the opportunity to bring new seasons of this beloved franchise exclusively to Disney+ and introduce the show to the next generation of audiences in more than 150 markets around the world. The series is a perfect addition to our ever-growing catalogue of global content that continues to make Disney+ the home for exceptional storytelling.”

Rebecca Glashow, CEO, global distribution, BBC Studios, added: “We’re delighted to join forces with a partner that shares our vision and ambition for one of the most iconic shows in British TV history. This is great news for everyone who loves Doctor Who, and for all the new fans we will reach through this powerful partnership.”

Showrunner Russell T. Davies is overseeing the next phase of the series, which will be produced in Wales by Bad Wolf with BBC Studios Production. BBC chief content officer Charlotte Moore said Disney is “the perfect partner” for the show and “will elevate the show to even greater heights and reach new audiences.”

Disney+ has a formidable track record in sci-fi and fantasy with franchises such as Marvel and Star Wars. Based on its programming strategy to date, the platform’s investment in Doctor Who could easily lead to new series in the universe. At time of writing, Disney + has around 152 million global subscribers.