As new companion Dan

John Bishop is to become Doctor Who’s companion in the next series.

The comedian will join 13th Doctor Jodie Whittaker and Mandip Gill, who plays Yaz, in the role of Dan, the BBC has announced.

Bishop said: ‘If I could tell my younger self that one day I would be asked to step on board the Tardis, I would never have believed it. 

‘It’s an absolute dream come true to be joining Doctor Who and I couldn’t wish for better company than Jodie and Mandip."

Showrunner Chris Chibnall added: ‘It’s time for the next chapter of Doctor Who, and it starts with a man called Dan. 

‘Oh, we’ve had to keep this one secret for a long, long time. Our conversations started with John even before the pandemic hit. The character of Dan was built for him, and it’s a joy to have him aboard the Tardis.’

Bishop began filming the13th series of the revived Doctor Who in November and according to the BBC Dan will face ‘evil alien races beyond his wildest nightmares’.

Matt Strevens, executive producer of the show for BBC Studios, says: ‘It’s been a total joy having John join the cast and we’ve been having a lot fun on set already.’

Over Christmas, Bishop revealed that he had contracted coronavirus and had to self-isolate for ten days.

He said: ‘This is the worst illness I have ever had, debilitating headaches, muscle joint and even skin pain, dizziness, nausea, no appetite, incredibly chronic fatigue. My wife and I are fit non smokers and it's flattened us. I don't wish this on anyone.’

Dr Who returns to BBC One later in 2021.

Published: 1 Jan 2021