Doctor Who spoilers follow.
Doctor Who boss Russell T Davies has teased a possible new spin-off show based on this year's Christmas special.
The 2024 festive episode, titled Joy to the World, saw the Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) checking in to the Time Hotel in 4202. Guests at the hotel were able to holiday anywhere in time, such as London during the Blitz or the assassination of JFK.
The Doctor was accompanied by Joy (guest star Nicola Coughlan) as they teamed up to prevent the end of the universe.
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The episode featured various Easter eggs including 'Mr Benn's clothes shop', which referenced a BBC children's show from the 70s. Mr Benn saw the titular character visit a costume shop, where he would enter a magic door and experience a new world related to the costume he had chosen.
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In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, showrunner Davies and writer Steven Moffat addressed the possibility of the Time Hotel appearing in future Doctor Who episodes. The duo teased a spin-off series, which they referred to as "Mr Benn for a new generation".
"A spin-off! You could do a spin-off for that, Steven?" suggested Davies. Moffat replied: "That's a show, isn't it? I mean, that's Mr Benn for a new generation. You could absolutely bring back the Time Hotel. I can't imagine the Doctor being able to resist going there!"
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The episode ended with the Doctor visiting Bethlehem in the year 0001, before Joy becomes a visible star to those around.
Asked if he had any hesitation about portraying the birth of Jesus Christ, Moffat replied: "It's a Christmas Day special. I think it's fair to acknowledge where he came from! I think that's all right. And that's a lovely story, so why not?
"I like the idea that lovely Joy led the people to the manger. I think that's a great idea. It's sweet and it’s lovely. A lot of kids will have been in their Nativity plays and they'll think about that," he added.
Doctor Who airs on BBC One in the UK and Disney+ elsewhere. Classic episodes of Doctor Who are available on BBC iPlayer in the UK.
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Divya is a freelance writer with experience in entertainment and lifestyle news. Described as a "telly addict" since childhood, Divya was able to translate her interests into a BJTC-accredited, Honours degree in Journalism and Media. After working in communications and marketing, Divya joined Digital Spy as a Freelance News Reporter. She has also written for various publications including Metro, Asian World News and TwitCelebGossip; as well as interviews, features and reviews on her own blog. Divya prides herself on her TV, film and showbiz knowledge, always offering (not so) fun facts to her long-suffering friends and family. From soaps to superheroes, Divya is the go-to person for tailored recommendations and up to date information.
