The BBC is taking pitches for a new Doctor Who series

But before you get ready to submit your dusty Dalek-human marriage story arc, note that there are several provisos attached to this open call. For instance, the paperwork states that prospective producers must propose a reasonable production base, with the broadcaster stating a preference for Wales. As to how potential new Doctor Who series are presented, the broadcaster is open to suggestions. “We are flexible in the way the series is structured i.e. serialised or ‘story-of-the-week’ and the number of episodes which make up the series.” It’s also adaptable when it comes to villain ideas. “Iconic, established villains are a mainstay of the series over 60 years and we invite you to use them, but we will want to begin to get an understanding of the original characters, aliens and themes that producers wish to bring to the show and are keen not to be overly reliant on existing Doctor Who lore.

“We are looking for a new perspective that ensures Doctor Who remains relevant, surprising, brave and inspiring for both long-standing fans and new audiences.”

But this shouldn’t suggest the BBC wants everybody to pitch their gonzo Who fanfic willy-nilly: Producers must feature the Doctor in their pitch, and at least one “distinctive, authentic” companion to accompany them. Companions, per the BBC, “should serve as an access point for audiences whilst also challenging, supporting, and influencing the Doctor.” Pitches that veer the Doctor and their companions into spicier space-time shenanigans will likely get tossed in the bin, as the BBC wants pitches that “deliver ‘back of the sofa’ scares, jeopardy and tension, whilst remaining suitable for a broad family audience” and that “celebrate curiosity, courage, intelligence, and compassion” while “interrogating the human condition.” It’d also help if the pitches boast “distinctively British storytelling.” 

While producers are encouraged to attach a committed writer to their pitches—they’re not necessarily married to the idea of having a new showrunner—the BBC’s document asks producers to include “a plan to develop actors” as part of their proposals, which, from this distance, seems to let former Who companion/maybe future Doctor Billie Piper off the hook for future appearances. “We see this pitch as an exciting opportunity to innovate and surprise us,” said the broadcaster.