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Fifth Dr Who series postponed until 2010
Tuesday 4 September 2007
With the fourth series, starring Tennant, due to hit TV screens next year, viewers would expect to see a fifth series in 2009. But today the BBC announced that the fifth series will not return until 2010.
In the meantime, Tennant, 36, will star in three 'Doctor Who' BBC1 specials, written by Russell T Davies, in 2009.
The fifth series has been postponed so that the 'Casanova' star can take to the stage to play 'Hamlet' with the Royal Shakespeare Company from July to November next year.
A 'Doctor Who' spokeswoman said of whether Tennant would be returning to the Tardis for a fifth series: "It's too early to comment." The Scottish actor took over from Christopher Eccleston after he quit the revival of the show after just one series in 2005 despite its enormous success.
The fourth series, which is in the process of being filmed, will see Tennant with new assistant Catherine Tate, who follows on from Freema Agyeman - also set to return - and Billie Piper.
Jane Tranter, Controller of BBC Fiction, said: "'Doctor Who' is one of the BBC's best loved and most successful dramas. Its journey over the past three series has been one of the most ambitious and exciting that we have had, and I'm delighted to be able to confirm not only three exciting specials for 2009, but a fifth series in 2010."
Menna Richards, Controller of BBC Wales, said: "The success of 'Doctor Who' is a fantastic tribute to the dedication and expertise of the production team at BBC Wales who have worked on the project from the outset.
"This announcement is marvellous news for all involved, and more importantly for the programme's amazing fan base and audience. BBC Wales is looking forward to producing the fifth series."
A special Christmas episode starring Tennant and Kylie Minogue will be broadcast on BBC1 in December.
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