Disney+ has officially ended its global streaming partnership with the BBC for Doctor Who, concluding a two-season collaboration that began in 2022. The BBC confirms the series will continue, with a 2026 Christmas special already in development.
BBC to Continue Doctor Who After Disney+ Exit
In a major shift for the iconic sci-fi franchise, Disney+ has officially exited its global distribution partnership with the BBC for Doctor Who. The collaboration, which began in 2022, saw Disney+ stream two seasons of the show internationally, excluding the UK and Ireland. The BBC has now confirmed it will fully fund and produce future episodes through its in-house studio Bad Wolf.
Lindsay Salt, Director of Drama at the BBC, expressed gratitude for the partnership: “We’d like to thank Disney+ for being terrific global partners and collaborators over the past two seasons, and for the upcoming spin-off series The War Between the Land and the Sea.” Salt emphasized the broadcaster’s commitment to the series, assuring fans that “the Doctor is not going anywhere.”
The next confirmed installment is a Doctor Who Christmas special slated for 2026, penned by returning showrunner Russell T Davies. This announcement follows the departure of Ncuti Gatwa, whose final appearance aired in May 2025, and marks a new chapter for the long-running series.
What’s Next for the Franchise?
– The War Between the Land and the Sea, a UNIT-focused spin-off, will still air on Disney+ and BBC One later this year.
– A new animated Doctor Who series is in development for CBeebies.
– Plans for the next full season and casting updates are expected to be announced in the coming months.
While the exit of Disney+ leaves Doctor Who without a confirmed international streaming home, the BBC’s reaffirmed commitment signals that the TARDIS will keep traveling—albeit on a new route.
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