Overview
- The BBC published the formal invitation to tender on Thursday, September 17, 2026, and set a timetable that asks for initial proposals by October 2, 2026, bidder interviews in January 2027, and a contract award in March 2027 with a target transmission window of 2028–29.
- The tender requires producers to pitch a multi‑episodic series that includes at least one fully developed companion character and stories that blend high‑concept science fiction with strong emotional grounding.
- The BBC asks for a cinematic, distinctive visual style, ‘back‑of‑the‑sofa’ family‑friendly scares, new original monsters rather than overreliance on legacy lore, and flexibility on episode count and format.
- The broadcaster says it is open to third‑party investment, prefers a Wales production qualification to protect local jobs and spend, and will keep BBC Studios as the series’ distributor and rights holder.
- The tender follows the departures of Russell T Davies and Bad Wolf and the end of the Disney co‑production deal, and industry observers warn that taking on the show carries prestige but also significant budget and scheduling risks that could still delay the franchise’s return.