Monday, June 13, 2022

Doctor Who - Neil Patrick Harris Joins 60th Anniversary Celebrations And It's Meeping Time

Last month we learned that Ncuti Gatwa was cast as the next Doctor while David Tennant and Catherine Tate were confirmed for the 60th anniversary of Doctor Who. Needless to say, more new information has been officially announced.

Neil Patrick Harris, best known for his roles in Doogie Howser and How I Met Your Mother has been cast in the 60th anniversary in a yet to be disclosed role. However going from an Instagram exchange between Harris and showrunner Russell T. Davies, Neil will play a great enemy of the Doctor. Going by the picture released, could Neil be playing the Celestial Toymaker, a role previously played by Michael Gough back in 1966? It would be an interesting choice for a return for the diamond celebration. Harris has previously worked with Davies on It's A Sin and I can't wait to see what chaos he'll bring to the Doctor when the two of them cross paths in 2023.

Speaking of chaos, recent set pics have pointed to a very random but inspired selection of villains that will be appearing in the first of three specials. Beep the Meep, a rather adorable but dangerous furry villain who originated in the comics (as well as an audio titled The Ratings War) along with the Wrarth Warriors. Both have been spotted on set and as baddies, they're such a delightfully bonkers choice to go with for the Doctor (David Tennant), Donna (Catherine Tate) and the latter's extended family to go up against.

The first special, nearing completion seems to be a present day alien invasion story with UNIT soldiers also being spotted on set. The special will also be directed by Rachel Talalay, who last directed Peter Capaldi's final three episodes back in 2017. As for whether or not other former Doctors and/or companions will be returning for any other specials, we'll have to keep an eye. Saying that, it feels good to be excited about the show's future.

NPH's Casting: https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a40275481/doctor-who-60th-anniversary-neil-patrick-harris/

Doctor Who is still filming for the next two months with it's 60th anniversary. The final special with Jodie Whittaker's Doctor will air on BBC1 and BBCAmerica from October. Exact date tbc.

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