The Doctor Who tardis is heading to BBC pre-school channel CBeebies.
The BBC has announced the next stage in the expansion of its Whoniverse, a pre-school animation version of its big-selling IP, which just wrapped second season under returned showrunner Russell T. Davies.
The show will see the Doctor travelling through time and space for the pre-school audience, solving mysteries and problems alongside their companions and other friends. And, of course, they may come up against one or two challenges on their way, the BBC said.
The BBC has set out a desire to find a “passionate production company” to produce the series, which will run independently from the main show. Disney, which co-produces the Bad Wolf and BBC Studios-produced main version, will not be involved with the animation.
Speaking about the plans, Patricia Hidalgo, Director of Children’s and Education said: “Everyone is welcome at CBeebies, including the Doctor. This much-loved franchise entertains millions around the world, so it is only right that our younger audience get to experience the wonder and the magic of the Doctor in a brand new format. This is an extremely exciting opportunity, and we are looking forward to welcoming companies to pitch for this new project, as we continue our commitment and investment in the UK’s animation industry.”
Doctor Who just wrapped its second season under Davies to mixed reviews and ratings, with Gatwa regenerating and exiting the show, replaced at least for now by Billie Piper, a former Doctor companion. “Just how and why she [Billie Piper] is back remains to be seen…,” said the BBC at the time.
The BBC and Disney+ are also prepping the first Whoniverse spin-off, The War Between the Land and the Sea.
Animated versions of big IP has been a big topic at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. Last night, a packed audience was treated to early footage and designs from the new Stranger Things animation. BBC Children’s commissioners led an Annecy session this morning at the MIFA industry sidebar.
