'Doctor Who' producer says Jodie Whittaker farewell is 'massive, feature-length epic'

Doctor Who executive producer Matt Strevens has promised that Jodie Whittaker's upcoming final episode will be "a massive, feature-length epic" with the potential to "push everybody's buttons".

Strevens told Doctor Who Magazine — reported via Digital Spy — that taking on the challenge of the extra special was a "no-brainer" for outgoing showrunner Chris Chibnall.

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The episode will air later in 2022 as part of the BBC's centenary celebrations and will follow the upcoming Easter special Legend of the Sea Devils.

Strevens said: "The final story is a massive, feature-length epic – it was huge to shoot – with lots of surprises for fans of all ages. Jodie gets a really good send-off. I think it will push everybody's buttons."

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Strevens remained tight-lipped about the prospect of who might be next to take on the role of the Doctor, with Russell T. Davies returning as showrunner after more than a decade away.

"Jodie's also very excited about who the next incumbent of the TARDIS is. There's that great thing, I think, of being able to hand the baton on," said Strevens.

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He added: "That's lovely for each actor who plays the part – you're a custodian and, like all of us who make the show, you want to make sure you've left it in a good enough place to continue.

"It meant a lot to Jodie to know that she would regenerate – it's lovely to pass that on."

The TARDIS team will next be seen in the Easter special Legend of the Sea Devils, which will see the titular critters appear in the show for the first time since 1984.

An official synopsis for the episode reveals that it will feature the Doctor, Yaz (Mandip Gill) and Dan (John Bishop) in 19th century China.

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It reads: "A small coastal village is under threat – from both the fearsome pirate queen Madame Ching (Crystal Yu) and a monstrous alien force which she unwittingly unleashes.

"Will the Doctor, Yaz and Dan emerge from this swashbuckling battle with the Sea Devils to save the planet?"

Watch: John Bishop takes on a Dalek in Doctor Who special