Doctor Who Introduces First Contender to Revive the Iconic Sci-Fi Series

Even before the BBC opened the door for creators to breathe new life into Doctor Who, fans around the globe were eager to take on the challenge. Hollywood screenwriter Dean Devlin, known for his work on Independence Day and Stargate, expressed his interest in reviving the series through his studio, Electric Company, with hopes of bringing back David Tennant for a fresh start.

With the BBC now accepting submissions for the competitive tender to produce Doctor Who, new contenders have emerged. One of the most intriguing bids comes from Jed Mercurio, the mastermind behind the acclaimed police drama, Line of Duty.

Reports indicate that Mercurio’s production company, Hat Trick Mercurio, has submitted a proposal with him attached as executive producer for the new Doctor Who series. While Mercurio is primarily known for his gripping work on Line of Duty, which has a seventh season slated for 2027, his experience with the sci-fi miniseries Invasion: Earth in 1998 could lend some credibility to his bid.

But the BBC isn’t the only player in the game for Doctor Who’s future. World Productions, which became part of ITV Studios in 2017, has also put forth plans to reinvent the Time Lord. Simon Heath, the CEO of World Productions, is leading this initiative. The company has a solid track record, having produced the BBC’s most-watched political thriller, Bodyguard, in 2018.

However, is a desire to take on the longest-running sci-fi series enough to qualify someone for the task? Mercurio is undoubtedly a talented writer, and World Productions has delivered impressive television over the years. Yet, Doctor Who is a massive franchise, rich in history and supported by a dedicated fanbase. Taking the reins won’t be a walk in the park for anyone.

As one senior production executive pointed out, “If Jane Tranter and Russell T Davies can’t make sense of that show, then who can and who wants to? It feels like a thankless task.”

Only time will reveal the outcome. For now, fans can take comfort in the fact that there is genuine interest in continuing Doctor Who, sparing them from another stretch of the Wilderness years.