Doctor Who: Why is the Christmas special not going ahead, how have fans reacted to news?
In October 2025 the BBC announced that there would be a Christmas special in 2026.
Despite announcing in October 2025 that there would be a Doctor Who Christmas special in 2026, the BBC has now revealed that it will not be going ahead. When the announcement was made last year, Lindsay Salt, Director of Drama, BBC, said: “We’d like to thank Disney+ for being terrific global partners and collaborators over the past two seasons, and for the upcoming The War Between the Land and the Sea. The BBC remains fully committed to Doctor Who, which continues to be one of our most loved dramas, and we are delighted that Russell T Davies has agreed to write us another spectacular Christmas special for 2026.
“We can assure fans, the Doctor is not going anywhere, and we will be announcing plans for the next series in due course which will ensure the TARDIS remains at the heart of the BBC.”
The BBC has now shared an update on the Christmas special that was planned and have said: “Today we’re announcing an update on plans for the future of Doctor Who.As part of securing the next phase of the show for future generations, and in line with the BBC’s Charter and Agreement requirements, the BBC will put Doctor Who out to competitive tender this year.
“Doctor Who remains an important part of the BBC and this tender underpins the BBC’s continued commitment to Doctor Who ensuring audiences will enjoy the show for years to come.After careful consideration, the BBC, Russell T Davies and Bad Wolf have collectively decided not to go ahead with the previously announced Doctor Who Christmas episode.
“This decision was not taken lightly, and we know it will be disappointing for fans, but in order to set the show up for future series, it was decided that rather than bridge the gap with a one off special, we are choosing to push forward to invest in the long-term future of the show which ensures that when the TARDIS lands once more, it does so in all its glory.”
There is a mixed reaction to the news on Facebook. One fan wrote: “I thought they were going to announce the next Doctor ,” whilst another said: “Thanks, kids are crying now.
It's me, I'm the kid.”
One other person wrote:”I did have a feeling this was going to happen. Not surprising and will admit this is maybe the best decision. I’m thinking about the shows survival rather than my personal feelings on this,” whilst another said: “So RTD couldn’t figure out how to solve the corner he’d written himself into?
“Hopefully the new showrunner looks for new talent with a deep love of the franchise and an understanding of what the role entails. Hiring Gatwa was a mistake because the man was at the peak of his career and would never have been able to commit to how all-consuming the role of The Doctor is.
“It’s no surprise he asked for an early release.
“Time to make like 2005 and ignore the last episode and introduce us to a new Doctor.”