Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies has revealed the inner workings behind why the beloved sci-fi series is filmed months in advance, shedding light on the complexities of its production schedule.
Despite the much-anticipated return of the BBC series later this month, with Ncuti Gatwa taking on the role of The Doctor, Davies disclosed that filming for the follow-up season has already concluded.
In a recent interview with Metro, Davies elucidated the necessity of this advanced filming schedule, citing the intricate nature of special effects as a primary factor.
“I always knew that we would have to negotiate the fact that we are shooting so far in advance,” Davies remarked. “In April, we finished shooting the second season before the first season has even gone out. It’s extraordinary.”
Davies elaborated on the challenges posed by special effects, dispelling the misconception that they are fast and easy to produce. “People think special effects are fast and easy these days. They are not. The better they are, the longer they take,” he explained.
Despite the logistical hurdles, Davies acknowledged the ongoing interest in the series, which he attributed to its enduring success.
Additionally, Davies hinted at a mystery plot development for the upcoming season, revealing the introduction of a second companion, portrayed by Varada Sethu from “Andor.” This announcement initially caused confusion regarding the status of Millie Gibson’s character, Ruby Sunday, but the BBC has since confirmed that both actors will be part of season 15.
Furthermore, US Broadway star and two-time RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Jinkx Monsoon will join the cast as the new villain Mastro in an upcoming double bill.
As Doctor Who continues to captivate audiences, Davies’ insights offer a glimpse into the intricacies of its production process and the creative decisions driving the series forward.
