Indira Varma joins the Doctor Who cast

Indira Varma has joined the cast of 'Doctor Who'.

The 49-year-old actress - who previously starred as Suzie Costello in the spin-off series 'Torchwood' - is "thrilled" to be joining the cast of the iconic sci-fi show.

Indira - who has been cast as the Duchess - said in a statement: "I’m thrilled to be in 'Doctor Who' and particularly excited to be crossing cosmic paths with Ncuti Gatwa, as the Doctor, and look forward to creating interplanetary mischief with him.

"I loved playing Suzie Costello for Russell T Davies in 'Torchwood' so am thrilled to be entering this world again."

Russell T Davies, 'Doctor Who's showrunner, is also thrilled to be working with the actress once again.

He said: "I’m overjoyed to be reunited with Indira after our 'Torchwood' days, and this part is truly spectacular! A whole new audience will be hiding behind the settee when the Duchess unleashes her terror."

Indira is set to star alongside Millie Gibson, who was previously announced as the new companion on 'Doctor Who'.

The 18-year-old actress - who is best known for playing Kelly Neelan in 'Coronation Street' - said at the time: "Whilst still being in total disbelief, I am beyond honoured to be cast as the Doctor’s companion.

"It is a gift of a role, and a dream come true, and I will do everything to try and fill the boots the fellow companions have travelled in before me. And what better way to do that than being by the fabulous Ncuti Gatwa’s side, I just can’t wait to get started."

Ncuti also heaped praise on Millie, describing her as "sharp" and "full of talent".

The actor said: "She is full of talent, strength, she has a cheeky sparkle in her eye and is sharp as a razor.

"From the moment she walked into the room she captured all of our attention with her effervescence and then solidified that attention with the sheer torque of her talent."