Doctor Who fans were left gobsmacked on Saturday when former star of the show, Billie Piper, was revealed as the new Doctor in news which had a profound effect on star Rylan Clark

Rylan Clark was left sobbing on Saturday after Doctor Who’s jaw-dropping twist

Rylan Clark was left sobbing on Saturday after Doctor Who’s jaw-dropping twist. In news which left the show’s legion of loyal fans stunned, former star of the sci-fi series, Billie Piper, was revealed as the new Doctor when current Time Lord, played by Ncuti Gatwa, regenerated.

Taking to Instagram with tears streaming down his face after watching the episode in which Billie, who played the Doctor’s companion, Rose Tyler, from 2005 – 2006 returned to the show in stunning style, Rylan said: “I’ll probably look back at this with real embarrassment, but I’ve just watched Doctor Who and I don’t know what’s just happened. Omg, it’s unbelievable. What a turn out.” Sharing the emotional post, show creator Russell T Davies replied to the TV presenter, saying: “Love you Rylan” with a big red heart emoji.

Rylan Clark had tears streaming down his face after Billie Piper was revealed as the new Doctor (Image: rylan/Instagram)

Rylan popped up in Doctor Who two weeks ago, portraying the host of the Interstellar Song Contest, which is akin to a galactic version of the Eurovision Song Contest, on the BBC’s iconic show.

Revealing that showrunner Russell had given him a special role on the programme, he said on Instagram: “So I have been keeping that secret for a year. I am so excited. I am a massive, massive Whovian. I love Doctor Who. I’ve loved it for years. And when I got that call I was so overwhelmed and I’m not gonna lie, I did have a little tear. Maybe a few more tears. It was the best experience of my life.”

Meanwhile, following her exit from Doctor Who, Billie, 42, went on to make cameo appearances in the series in 2008 and 2010. The actress previously returned for the 50th anniversary special as a separate character, but was still credited as Rose Tyler.

The huge news regarding her latest epic casting comes just days after speculation that Ncuti was preparing to step down from the role.

Speaking about her return, Billie said: “It’s no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that Tardis one more time was just something I couldn’t refuse.”

Meanwhile, in a statement released by the BBC, Ncuti said: “You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it.

Billie says she ‘couldn’t refuse’ the chance to go back to the sci-fi series(Image: PA)

“This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever. There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe.

“The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show, and I can’t thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in and making this such a touching experience.

“I’ve loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have. I’ll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.”

Taking to social media, fans couldn’t contain their joy when Billie was revealed as Ncuti’s replacement. One said: “OMFG just watched the final episode of Doctor Who. Spoiler alert. Billie Piper as the Doctor. WTF.”

A second added: “Billie Piper as the 16th Doctor wasn’t what I expected but hey it is something!” Meanwhile, another declared: “Billie Piper in Doctor Who. In the year 2025. not on my bingo cards.”