'Fleabag' actress Phoebe Waller-Bridge has emerged as the current front runner for the role of Dr Who after Peter Capaldi announced his decision to step down from the role later this year.
What is known about the front-runner?
The 31 year old Londoner made her acting debut in 2009 at the Soho Theatre and is probably best known for her role in the BBC 3 sitcom 'Fleabag' which she wrote as an adaptation of her own play. She has also played the role of a barrister in series 2 of 'Broadchurch'. However, she will shortly be making the step to the big screen with a role in the forthcoming Han Solo movie.
Rumors that Waller-Bridge is in line for the role have been fueled by the appointment of Chris Chibnall as the series showrunner. Chibnall had worked with Waller-Bridge previously on 'Broadchurch'. In addition, Peter Capaldi has openly stated that he would welcome the appointment of a female doctor. Bookmakers have seen a flurry of bets being laid on Ms Waller-Bridge slashing her odds from 20/1 on Monday to 2/1 today.
Who else is in the running?
Waller-Bridge is not the only actress in the running for the coveted role. 'Death in Paradise' and 'My Family' actor Kris Marshall is also a favorite at 2/1 after quitting the hit series set in the Caribbean. Other famous faces linked to the role include Tilda Swinton, David Harewood and Olivia Colman.
Peter Capaldi's Dr.
Capaldi has held the iconic role for three years before deciding to quit. He was offered help with his decision by previous Doctors Matt Smith and David Tennant. Three years is a familiar length in service for the Doctor, with only three remaining in the post for longer. The general feeling among the show's insiders is that Capaldi has 'cracked' the role and it is now time to move on.
Dr Who's past
The show began in 1963 and has so far featured 12 incarnations of the famous time traveler, none of which have been female so if Waller-Bridge were appointed could it open the doors for more females to take on iconic male roles. Maybe we could see a Jane Bond in the not too distant future ?
