Peter Capaldi reveals why he’s leaving Doctor Who

The Doctor’s time is almost up…

And now Peter Capaldi has revealed why he’s chosen to leave Doctor Who.

During an interview on The Graham Norton Show, the 59-year-old Doctor Who star explained why he’s leaving the hit sci-fi series… and it makes a lot of sense.

“Doctor Who is a great job, but it is a bit of a television factory,” he explained. “You do twelve episodes a year, and I just worried that I wouldn’t be able to continue to do my best work. I like to be able to learn the lines and do some preparation and come in and give it some vigor and not hate it. I just figure, while you’re enjoying it, leave.”

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I’ve been fortunate enough to witness Doctor Who filming first hand, out and about on location in Cardiff… and I have to admit, it always seems rather hectic. They pack a lot in, and I can understand why Capaldi might not want to be part of the ‘television factory’.

But it’s still a shame to see him go.

After all, I can’t help thinking that he’s just beginning to get into his stride. The addition of Pearl Mackie as Bill has been a welcome change in the first episode of Series 10, and there’s already a rather nice dynamic developing between the time-travelling trio of The Doctor, Bill and Nardole.

Sadly, it’s only going to last for one season…

But at least it looks as though Peter Capaldi will be going out on a high.

Here’s his official statement revealed by the BBC:

“One of the greatest privileges of being Doctor Who is to see the world at its best,” he explained. “From our brilliant crew and creative team working for the best broadcaster on the planet, to the viewers and fans whose endless creativity, generosity and inclusiveness points to a brighter future ahead. I can’t thank everyone enough. It’s been cosmic.”

Who will take over from Peter Capaldi?

Rumours persist that Kris Marshall is next in line, with the Mirror now claiming that it’s a done deal, and that Marshall has already begun filming his first scenes at the BBC studios at Roath Lock, Cardiff.

But for now, we have to wait and see.

Doctor Who returns 22 April on BBC One.

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Do you wish Peter Capaldi was staying as The Doctor? Will Kris Marshall be his replacement? Leave your comments below… and follow Ryan Leston on Twitter, Facebook and Total Geeks for more on the latest TV shows.