Bad news for Twelfth Doctor fans: you shouldn’t expect to see ole Scottish Eyebrows return to the series anytime soon.

Peter Capaldi fronted Doctor Who during seasons 8-10 of the modern series. And while his time on the series officially ended as the Twelfth Doctor regenerated into the Thirteenth (Jodie Whittaker), his fans have hoped to see him appear in future episodes. 

In particular, Doctor Who has a tradition of bringing back former Doctors to appear in multi-Doctor stories, particularly specials. It’s a long-standing format dating back to the series’ classic run; though newer fans will most likely remember the big 50th anniversary special, “The Day of the Doctor,” which featured then-Doctor Matt Smith teaming up with his previous regeneration (David Tennant).

So, there is precedent in the run of Doctor Who to bring back former Doctors. But of course, the actors have to be willing to make that appearance. And it looks like Capaldi doesn’t plan on making a return in a multi-doctor special.

In a recent interview with BBC Radio’s Steven Rainey, Capaldi said he “wouldn’t really fancy” appearing in such an episode. 

“There are so many Doctors now,” explained Capaldi. “I’m quite happy with what I did, you know. I loved my time on Doctor Who, but I think the more of the multi-Doctor stories you have the less effective they are, really.”

As a big fan of Capaldi’s Doctor, I’m disappointed, though I definitely see where he’s coming from here. Each repeat appearance of a Doctor following their official run on the series does dilute the impact of their leaving a bit. The Twelfth Doctor also had a particularly emotional and impactful regeneration, so it makes sense that Capaldi would want to preserve that moment for his character.

(And hey, he hasn’t technically ruled out all potential reappearances on the show here. Maybe we can still hope for a cameo or flashback.)

The next season of Doctor Who – which will be Whittaker’s final season as the Doctor – debuts later this year. Capaldi can next be seen in the DC’s The Suicide Squad. 

So, what do you think about Capaldi’s disinterest in returning to Doctor Who for a multi-Doctor story? Let us know in the comments.

Source: BBC Radio