Overview
- The BBC published a formal invitation to tender on Thursday that asks producers to pitch a multi‑episodic series for transmission in 2028/29 with initial proposals due by October 2 and a contract decision expected in spring 2027.
- The tender requires a contemporary, cinematic vision that balances high‑concept science fiction with emotional storytelling and asks bidders to develop at least one distinctive companion character.
- The broadcaster says it is flexible on format — serialised or story‑of‑the‑week — and is not insisting on a single showrunner model, signalling a move toward episodic writers and different leadership structures.
- The document invites proposals for third‑party investment, confirms shortlisted teams will consult with current distributor BBC Studios, and signals the BBC will retain IP while changing the commercial model for the series.
- The tender formalises earlier changes: the 2026 Christmas special was cancelled and Russell T Davies, Bad Wolf and Ncuti Gatwa are no longer attached; the BBC also expresses a preference for production in Wales to preserve the series’ British ties and local economic benefits.