Doctor Who season 12 is arriving earlier next year, and there are a lot of interesting happenings when the new installment arrives. The good news is that the sci-fi series will premiere on New Year's Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1, on BBC America, the network recently confirmed.
Doctor Who season 12 will kick off with a two-part episode, and then the series will go on its usual timeslot on Sunday, Jan. 5 at 8/7c. In a report via Radio Times, executive producer Chris Chibnall discussed why they decided to bring back a two-part episode this season.
He said they wanted to weave things a bit more this year, so they're likely planning to tell a bigger story this time. Chibnall thinks fans and viewers can tell different types of stories within the two-parter, adding that he really loves "Doctor Who cliffhanger."
Also, BBC America and Fathom Events will, reportedly, host a one-night-only screening of Doctor Who season 12's first and second episode. It will be simulcast to over 600 cinema screens nationwide on Sunday, Jan. 5, while tickets and participating locations will be available on Friday, Dec. 6.
As for who's returning in Doctor Who season 12, Jodie Whittaker will be back as the titular Time Lord, and this marks the actress' second season as the 13th Doctor. Other returning cast members include Bradley Walsh as Graham, Mandip Gill as Yasmin, and Tosin Cole as Ryan.
Meanwhile, some guest stars set to appear in Doctor Who season 12 include Robert Glenister, Goran Višnjić, Lenny Henry, and Stephen Fry. Both Henry and Fry are involved in the opening series of the latest installment, playing Broadchurch and Bones, respectively.
Some reports also suggest new characters are arriving in the new season. For instance, it was previously reported that comic actor James Buckley is the latest addition in the upcoming installment, and he'll be playing the role of Nevi. Bodyguard star Anjli Mohindra, on the other hand, will play Queen Skithra.
As for the storyline of Doctor Who season 12, Walsh hinted that the latest season would be the scariest so far as it includes "absolutely terrifying new monsters." The actor also noted that viewers should be prepared since the monsters are terrifying and will make viewers' hair curl.
In addition, Chibnall also told Radio Times he's excited to bring in the Cybermen since they're important part of the rogues' gallery. He said they'd done something different this season, and there's a particular story that he wanted to tell.
