The highly anticipated Doctor Who 60th anniversary specials have brought back beloved faces and introduced exciting new characters to the Whoniverse. These specials mark the return of David Tennant as the Fourteenth Doctor and Catherine Tate as the iconic Donna Noble, creating a nostalgic reunion for long-time fans. The journey culminates in the final special, “The Giggle,” which not only features these returning favorites but also heralds the debut of Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor, paving the way for his era starting with “The Church on Ruby Road” this Christmas.
As the excitement builds for these landmark episodes, curiosity about the ensemble cast is at its peak. Who are the returning legends? Which new stars are joining the Doctor Who family? Dive in to discover the essential details about the cast of the Doctor Who 60th anniversary specials, with a special focus on the cast of “The Giggle.”
Doctor Who 2023 Cast: Key Characters in the 60th Anniversary Specials
Below is a comprehensive list of the main cast members and the characters they portray in the Doctor Who 60th anniversary specials. Continue reading for in-depth profiles of each character and to learn more about the actors who bring them to life.
- David Tennant as The Fourteenth Doctor
- Catherine Tate as Donna Noble
- Ncuti Gatwa as The Fifteenth Doctor
- Neil Patrick Harris as The Toymaker
- Jacqueline King as Sylvia Noble
- Karl Collins as Shaun Temple
- Yasmin Finney as Rose Noble
- Bernard Cribbins as Wilfred Mott
- Jemma Redgrave as Kate Stewart
- Ruth Madeley as Shirley Anne Bingham
- Miriam Margolyes as the voice of Beep the Meep
- Susan Twist as Mrs Merridew
- Charlie De Melo as Charles Banerjee
- John Mackay as John Logie Baird
- Bonnie Langford as Mel Bush
David Tennant as The Fourteenth Doctor
David Tennant as The Doctor and Beep the Meep beside him
David Tennant as the Fourteenth Doctor alongside Beep the Meep in Doctor Who: The Star Beast.
Who is The Fourteenth Doctor? The Doctor, a legendary Time Lord from Gallifrey, traverses space and time in the TARDIS, often accompanied by a companion. In a surprising turn of events, Jodie Whittaker’s Thirteenth Doctor regenerated into the Fourteenth Doctor, who remarkably shares the face of the Tenth Doctor. This regeneration mystery is a central plot point in the 60th anniversary specials.
The specials follow the Fourteenth Doctor as he reunites with Donna Noble and grapples with the perplexing return of his familiar face. This incarnation promises a blend of the beloved Tenth Doctor’s energy with a fresh, intriguing narrative.
Where have I seen David Tennant before? David Tennant is globally recognized for his portrayal of the Tenth Doctor, a role he embodied from 2005 to 2010 and briefly revisited in 2013. His Doctor Who tenure is celebrated as a golden era for the series.
Beyond Doctor Who, Tennant’s extensive acting career includes leading roles in acclaimed series such as Good Omens, Staged, the crime drama Broadchurch, Deadwater Fell, and Criminal. He has also captivated audiences in Casanova, Jessica Jones, Inside Man, The Sandman, Litvinenko, and There She Goes. Film appearances include Mary Queen of Scots, Fright Night, and his memorable role as Barty Crouch Jr. in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
Catherine Tate as Donna Noble
Donna (Catherine Tate) in Doctor Who wearing a pink jumper and olive coat
Catherine Tate as Donna Noble in Doctor Who, back for the 60th anniversary specials.
Who is Donna Noble? Donna Noble is a former companion of the Doctor, known for her wit and relatability. Initially a temp worker from Chiswick, Donna’s life changed dramatically when she was unexpectedly swept into the TARDIS, becoming entangled in a plot involving the Racnoss and a threat to Earth.
Her travels with the Doctor led to a unique meta-crisis when she touched his regeneration energy. This event created both a half-human Doctor, now living in a parallel universe, and the “DoctorDonna,” imbuing Donna with Time Lord knowledge. The overwhelming Time Lord intellect threatened to overwhelm her human mind, forcing the Doctor to erase her memories of their adventures to save her life.
He warned her family that remembering would be fatal. While a near-memory trigger occurred during the Tenth Doctor’s final story, “The End of Time,” Donna survived, married Shaun Temple, and remained unaware of her extraordinary past—until now.
Where have I seen Catherine Tate before? Catherine Tate is a celebrated comedian and actress, best known for her sketch comedy show The Catherine Tate Show. Her comedic talents shine in series like Big School, The Office (US), Hard Cell, and Queen of Oz. Her return to Doctor Who is highly anticipated by fans who cherish her dynamic with David Tennant’s Doctor.
The Star Beast Cast
Jacqueline King as Sylvia Noble
Sylvia Noble (Jacqueline King) in Doctor Who wearing a blue shirt, smiling into camera
Jacqueline King as Sylvia Noble in Doctor Who, Donna’s protective mother.
Who is Sylvia Noble? Sylvia Noble is Donna’s mother, initially portrayed as critical of her daughter in season 4. Since Donna’s travels with the Doctor were erased from her memory, Sylvia has been fiercely protective, guarding Donna from any recollection of her past adventures to keep her safe. As Donna’s past threatens to resurface, Sylvia’s protective instincts will be tested.
Where have I seen Jacqueline King before? Jacqueline King has a diverse acting background, with roles in 55 Degrees North, the long-running soap opera Coronation Street, Holby City, and Doctors. She has also appeared in comedies like Turn Up Charlie and the Amazon series Mammals.
Karl Collins as Shaun Temple
Shaun Temple (Karl Collins) in Doctor Who leaning on a taxi
Karl Collins as Shaun Temple, Donna’s husband, in Doctor Who.
Who is Shaun Temple? Shaun Temple is Donna’s husband, whom she married after her time with the Doctor. He is completely unaware of Donna’s past life of time travel and alien encounters, making him as much in the dark about the unfolding events as Donna initially is.
Where have I seen Karl Collins before? Karl Collins has built a solid career in film and television. He appeared in The Flash movie and the cult classic Attack the Block. His TV credits include The Bill, Twenty Twelve, Death in Paradise, Black Mirror, This is England ’90, Hollyoaks, Vera, The Larkins, Champion, and Culprits.
Yasmin Finney as Rose Noble
Rose (Yasmin Finney) in Doctor Who wearing a denim jacket
Yasmin Finney as Rose Noble, Donna and Shaun’s daughter, in Doctor Who.
Who is Rose Noble? Rose Noble is Donna and Shaun’s intelligent and resourceful daughter, introduced in “The Star Beast.” Sharing a name with a former companion of the Doctor, Rose Noble is more extraordinary than she knows. She is a keen toy maker and becomes central to the unfolding mysteries in the specials.
Yasmin Finney has described Rose as a “trans icon, a 15-year-old trans girl with a great, supportive family,” inviting fans to “envision Heartstopper but fighting aliens.” Rose makes significant discoveries in “The Star Beast,” hinting at a deeper connection to the extraordinary events surrounding her family.
Where have I seen Yasmin Finney before? Yasmin Finney rose to prominence for her role in the hit Netflix teen drama Heartstopper. She also made a guest appearance as a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Her casting as Rose Noble marks a significant moment for representation in Doctor Who.
Ruth Madeley as Shirley Anne Bingham
Ruth Madeley in Doctor Who wearing a black jacket and red outfit
Ruth Madeley as Shirley Anne Bingham, a UNIT scientific advisor in Doctor Who.
Who is Shirley Anne Bingham? Shirley Anne Bingham is the latest scientific advisor for UNIT, the Unified Intelligence Taskforce. She becomes a crucial ally to the Doctor, assisting in the fight against alien threats to Earth. Her expertise and collaboration with UNIT highlight the organization’s continued role in defending the planet.
Where have I seen Ruth Madeley before? Ruth Madeley is an accomplished actress with roles in popular TV series including Fresh Meat, Outnumbered, Cold Feet, Russell T Davies’s Years and Years, The Cleaner, Brassic, and The Long Shadow. She also starred in the TV film Then Barbara Met Alan.
Miriam Margolyes as the voice of Beep the Meep
The Meep, as voiced by Miriam Margolyes, in Doctor Who
Miriam Margolyes voices Beep the Meep in Doctor Who, a character with a hidden agenda.
Who is Beep the Meep? Beep the Meep is a character originating from a 1980 Doctor Who comic story, making their on-screen debut in “The Star Beast.” Initially appearing to seek help from the Noble family and the Doctor, Beep the Meep’s true intentions remain shrouded in mystery. What does this seemingly innocent creature truly want?
Where have I seen Miriam Margolyes before? Miriam Margolyes is a celebrated actress with a long and distinguished career in film, television, and theatre. Her film credits include Little Shop of Horrors, The Age of Innocence, Babe, James and the Giant Peach, Romeo + Juliet, Mulan, Magnolia, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (as Professor Sprout), and Happy Feet. She has also appeared in series such as Blackadder, The Sarah Jane Adventures, Merlin, Doc Martin, and Call the Midwife.
Wild Blue Yonder Cast
Nathaniel Curtis as Sir Isaac Newton
Nathaniel Curtis as Isaac Newton in Doctor Who
Nathaniel Curtis as a young Isaac Newton in Doctor Who’s “Wild Blue Yonder.”
In “Wild Blue Yonder,” the second anniversary special, the Doctor and Donna find themselves in 1666, encountering a young Isaac Newton, played by Nathaniel Curtis, who is yet to be knighted. This historical meeting adds a unique twist to their time-traveling adventure.
Fans will recognize Nathaniel Curtis from his role as Ash Mukherjee in Russell T Davies’s critically acclaimed series It’s a Sin.
Bernard Cribbins as Wilfred Mott
Catherine Tate, David Tennant and Bernard Cribbins on the set of Doctor Who hugging and smiling
Catherine Tate, David Tennant, and Bernard Cribbins on the set of Doctor Who, a heartwarming reunion.
Who is Wilfred Mott? Wilfred Mott, Donna’s grandfather, is a beloved character who has aided Donna and the Doctor in numerous past adventures. He played a significant role in the Tenth Doctor’s final confrontation with the Master, unknowingly heralding the Doctor’s regeneration.
In “Wild Blue Yonder,” Wilf makes a poignant return, reassuring the Doctor and Donna about the safety of the Noble family. This scene marks Bernard Cribbins’ final appearance on screen, adding an emotional layer to the anniversary specials. The episode “Wild Blue Yonder” is dedicated to his memory.
Where have I seen Bernard Cribbins before? Bernard Cribbins, who sadly passed away in 2022, had an illustrious career spanning decades. His early Doctor Who connection includes the 1966 film Daleks – Invasion Earth 2150 AD. He is also celebrated for his roles in several Carry On films, The Railway Children, Jackanory, The Wombles, Fawlty Towers, Coronation Street, Old Jack’s Boat, and Midsomer Murders.
The Giggle Cast
Ncuti Gatwa as The Fifteenth Doctor
Ncuti Gatwa in Doctor Who
Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor, debuting in Doctor Who special “The Giggle.”
Who is The Fifteenth Doctor? The Giggle special is particularly significant as it marks the highly anticipated debut of Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor. Taking over from David Tennant’s Fourteenth Doctor, Gatwa’s incarnation promises a fresh and dynamic era for Doctor Who. Gatwa has hinted at his Doctor being “emotionally vulnerable” beneath a humorous exterior, suggesting a complex and compelling portrayal.
Where have I seen Ncuti Gatwa before? Ncuti Gatwa gained international recognition for his role as Eric Effiong in the Netflix hit series Sex Education. He also appeared in the blockbuster film Barbie and is set to star in the Apple TV+ series Masters of the Air. His casting as the Doctor has generated immense excitement and anticipation for the future of Doctor Who.
Neil Patrick Harris as The Toymaker
Neil Patrick Harris as the Toymaker in Doctor Who
Neil Patrick Harris as the menacing Toymaker in Doctor Who’s “The Giggle.”
Who is The Toymaker? The Toymaker is a formidable villain returning to Doctor Who after a long absence. Originally played by Michael Gough in a 1966 First Doctor story, the Toymaker, also known as the Celestial Toymaker, is a powerful being who manipulates reality and forces his victims into deadly games. His return in “The Giggle” signals a major threat to the Doctor and the universe, as he seeks revenge for past defeats.
Where have I seen Neil Patrick Harris before? Neil Patrick Harris is a celebrated actor known for his diverse roles. He rose to fame as the titular character in Doogie Howser, MD and achieved iconic status as Barney Stinson in How I Met Your Mother. His film and television credits include the Harold and Kumar film series, The Smurfs movies, Gone Girl, The Matrix Resurrections, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, A Series of Unfortunate Events, Uncoupled, and Russell T Davies’s It’s a Sin.
Jemma Redgrave as Kate Lethbridge Stewart
Kate Lethbridge Stewart (Jemma Redgrave) in Doctor Who with her hands on her hips
Jemma Redgrave as Kate Lethbridge Stewart, head of UNIT, in Doctor Who.
Who is Kate Lethbridge Stewart? Kate Lethbridge Stewart is the daughter of Brigadier Alistair Lethbridge Stewart, a legendary figure in Doctor Who history and a founder of UNIT. Following in her father’s footsteps, Kate is the current leader and chief scientific officer of UNIT, dedicated to defending Earth from extraterrestrial threats. She has collaborated with multiple Doctors and is expected to continue her role into the Fifteenth Doctor’s era.
Where have I seen Jemma Redgrave before? Jemma Redgrave is a respected actress with a wide range of credits. She has appeared in Mansfield Park, Love & Friendship, Red, White & Royal Blue, Bramwell, Holby City, Grantchester, and Silent Witness. Her portrayal of Kate Stewart has solidified her place in the Doctor Who universe.
Charlie De Melo as Charles Banerjee
Charles Banerjee (Charlie De Melo) in Doctor Who
Charlie De Melo as Charles Banerjee in Doctor Who’s “The Giggle,” a mysterious new character.
Who is Charles Banerjee? Details about Charles Banerjee remain scarce, adding to the mystery surrounding his role in “The Giggle.”
Where have I seen Charlie De Melo before? Charlie De Melo has appeared in EastEnders and Doctors but is best known for his role as Imran Habeeb in Coronation Street. His presence in the Doctor Who cast hints at a potentially significant role in the unfolding events.
John Mackay as John Logie Baird
John Mackay as John Logie Baird in Doctor Who
John Mackay as John Logie Baird, the television pioneer, in Doctor Who.
Who is John Logie Baird? John Logie Baird was a pioneering Scottish inventor who made history by demonstrating the world’s first working television in 1926. He further innovated by inventing the first publicly shown color television. His inclusion in “The Giggle” suggests a storyline intertwined with the dawn of television technology.
Where have I seen John Mackay before? John Mackay’s acting credits include roles in films such as Judy, Ammonite, Cruella, and Living, as well as series like The Hollow Crown, Call the Midwife, Bridgerton, and Great Expectations. Notably, he also played John Logie Baird in Russell T Davies’s Nolly, creating a unique crossover within Davies’s television universe.
Bonnie Langford as Mel Bush
Doctor Who
Bonnie Langford returns as Mel Bush in Doctor Who, now working with UNIT.
Who is Mel Bush? Melanie “Mel” Bush is a returning companion of the Doctor, having traveled with the Sixth and Seventh Doctors. In her reappearance in the 60th anniversary specials, Mel is now working for UNIT, showcasing her continued involvement in defending Earth. She recently appeared in “The Power of the Doctor,” bridging past and present Doctor Who eras.
Where have I seen Bonnie Langford before? Bonnie Langford is a well-known figure in British television and West End theatre. She is beloved for her role as Carmel Kazemi in EastEnders and has a long and successful career in entertainment.
Alexander Devrient as Colonel Ibrahim
Colonel Ibrahim (Alexander Devrient) in Doctor Who
Alexander Devrient as Colonel Ibrahim, a UNIT officer, in Doctor Who’s “The Giggle.”
Who is Colonel Ibrahim? Colonel Ibrahim is a new character associated with UNIT, as indicated by his uniform in first-look images from “The Giggle.” His role likely involves working alongside Kate Stewart and UNIT in addressing the threats that arise in the special.
Where have I seen Alexander Devrient before? Alexander Devrient’s recent credits include appearances in The Lazarus Project season 2, Ted Lasso, and Motherland. His addition to the Doctor Who cast further strengthens the UNIT presence in these specials.
Don’t miss Doctor Who’s final 60th anniversary special, “The Giggle,” airing at 6:30pm on Saturday, December 9th, on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Catch up on classic episodes on BritBox – explore with a 7-day free trial here.
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