Doctor Who Stars Defend 'Woke' Label as Season 15 Premiere Nears

Varada Sethu and Ncuti Gatwa embrace inclusivity in the first TARDIS duo of color, countering criticism with optimism.

Varada Sethu, the new Doctor Who companion, stated that criticism of the show being 'woke' is a sign it aligns with its core values of inclusivity and kindness.
Season 15, premiering April 12, 2025, introduces the first all-people-of-color TARDIS duo with Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor and Sethu as Belinda Chandra.
Sethu emphasized her character's equal partnership with the Doctor, reflecting a shift in companion dynamics under showrunner Russell T Davies.
Both Sethu and Gatwa acknowledged online toxicity but expressed excitement over their groundbreaking roles and the positive fan responses.
Uncertainty surrounds the show's future beyond season 15, with reports suggesting Disney is dissatisfied with ratings and return on investment.