Doctor Who fans spot huge clue that Billie Piper would return to iconic BBC show after star drops hint

Eagle-eyed Doctor Who fans reckon was always destined to return to the series after she was last night. Whovians across the country were sent into a frenzy when the current Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa, regenerated in Saturday's show, and, who played companion Rose Tyler in the series from 2005 to 2006, appeared in his place.

Billie, 42, said she 'couldn't refuse' the opportunity to step back into the Tardis after her epic casting in the titular role was revealed and now fans say they've spotted a huge clue that the actress would return. During an unearthed fan convention for the sci-fi series in America in 2021, former Dr Who star, Christopher Ecclestone gives his take on who should be the next Doctor. As the audience lets out a squeal of excitement, he declared: "I think the new Doctor should be Billie Piper actually."

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Posting the clip on X, several fans hinted that Billie was always going to return to the as one shared a meme of Christopher saying: 'Absolutely fantastic' with the caption: "Chris looking at the TV yesterday be like."

Meanwhile, another fan replied: "Was probably his favourite episode of the show since he left." 

Chris, who starred as the ninth incantation of the Doctor in 2005, counted Billie's Rose among his companions. Revealing she couldn't turn down the opportunity to come back to the show, the actress, who also made cameo appearances in the series in 2008 and 2010, said: "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."

Reacting to Billie's reveal in Saturday's show, self-confessed Whovian, Rylan Clarke, who popped up in Doctor Who two weeks ago, told fans he was probably going to 'regret' his emotional post, but shared - with tears streaming down his face - "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 heartfelt message, showrunner, Russell T Davies, replied to the TV presenter, saying: "Love you Rylan" with a big red heart emoji.

Billie replaces Ncuti Gatwa in the role, who said it had been honour to play the Doctor, which is one of TV's most coveted roles. In a statement released by the , he 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.

"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.

"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.

"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."

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