**Doctor Who Ventures Into Animation With New CBeebies Series**
In a move certain to delight families across the UK, the BBC has officially greenlit a fresh animated adaptation of the beloved Doctor Who franchise, this time designed specifically for the youngest generation of viewers. The new series will premiere on CBeebies, marking the TARDIS’s maiden landing on the pre-school channel and introducing the mysteries of time and space to a brand-new audience.
The BBC is currently seeking proposals from UK production companies eager to bring this innovative project to life. Unlike the main primetime Doctor Who series, currently steered by renowned showrunner Russell T Davies, this animated iteration will exist as a standalone adventure in the Whoniverse, crafted independently to capture the imagination of pre-schoolers.
Patricia Hidalgo, the BBC’s Director of Children’s and Education, expressed her enthusiasm at the prospect of welcoming the Doctor to CBeebies. “Everyone is welcome at CBeebies, including the Doctor,” Hidalgo stated. “This iconic franchise inspires millions globally, so it feels right that even our youngest viewers should have the opportunity to share in the Doctor’s adventure in a form tailored just for them. We’re keen to see creative companies pitch for this challenge, and it signals another step in our ongoing support of the UK’s thriving animation industry.”
Plans for the animated Doctor Who series span an ambitious 52 episodes, with 26 set for release during 2027 and 2028, followed by a further 26 airing between 2028 and 2029. The series aims to capture the core magic of Doctor Who: the titular time traveller, accompanied by friends and companions, embarking on exciting journeys through time and space, solving age-appropriate mysteries, and encountering challenges suited to a young audience.
Further details outlined in the BBC’s pitch request indicate that episode submissions are encouraged from passionate production companies who can balance engaging storytelling with educational and moral lessons suitable for pre-schoolers. The closing date for initial submissions is set for 10 July 2025, leaving prospective creatives with just under a month to stake their claim on this landmark project.
This announcement comes at a significant transitional moment for the wider Doctor Who universe. The latest series concluded with a dramatic twist, as Ncuti Gatwa’s tenure as the Fifteenth Doctor ended in spectacular fashion during the finale, ‘The Reality War.’ Viewers witnessed Gatwa’s Doctor regenerate into a character played by Billie Piper, known to long-time fans as former companion Rose Tyler – a reveal which has sparked considerable debate as to the true identity of the new Doctor.
Russell T Davies, reflecting on the series’ latest development, acknowledged Gatwa’s contributions. “What a Doctor! Thank you, Ncuti! His final words sum it up: this has been an absolute joy. The entire Cardiff team, and everyone involved over the years, feels privileged to have shared in this remarkable adventure as Ncuti embarks on new journeys beyond Doctor Who.”
Meanwhile, Billie Piper offered her own thoughts on her surprise return to the franchise. “I’ve always had a deep affection for Doctor Who and cherished my time as Rose Tyler. Returning to the Whoniverse and stepping into the TARDIS once more was an opportunity I couldn’t refuse. Exactly who I’ll be, and how it all unfolds, is something fans will have to wait and see.”
While it remains unclear how the new Doctor will be integrated into future storylines, the expansion into animation demonstrates the BBC’s commitment to keeping Doctor Who relevant and inclusive for audiences of all ages. This new animated version is not only anticipated to introduce the wonders of space and time travel to children, but also reinforce key values such as teamwork, curiosity, and kindness through engaging, accessible stories.
In summary, the forthcoming Doctor Who animated series on CBeebies marks both a nostalgic return and a progressive step forward, ensuring the legacy of Gallifrey’s most famous traveller continues to inspire, educate, and delight the next generation of viewers.