Eccleston Quits As 'Doctor Who' But Second Series Commissioned

Christopher Eccleston has quit as Doctor Who after just one series.

The news comes after the BBC announced it had already given the go-ahead to a second series following the success of Saturday's first episode, which was seen by more than 10 million viewers.

Eccleston, who admitted he found the show's filming schedule "gruelling," decided to leave over concerns of becoming typecast. "The audience’s response for the new Doctor Who has been incredible and I am really proud to be part of it," he said in a statement. "I hope viewers continue to enjoy the series."

Unusually, the BBC has confirmed it is "in talks" with Casanova star David Tennant as a possible replacement.

Eccleston's final appearance will be in a special episode this Christmas.

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The BBC has commissioned a second series of the new incarnation of Doctor Who following a warm reception to the series debut on Saturday.

The new series, starring Christopher Eccleston as the Time Lord, reached viewing figures of up to 10 million on Saturday, prompting the BBC to confirm a second series of thirteen episodes and a Christmas special.

The BBC quote writer Russell T Davies as saying: "It's fantastic news. It's been a tense and jittery time because the production team has been working on plans.

"We could all have ended up unemployed. But now we can put all those plans into action and get going.

"It's particularly good for BBC Wales. This is a major flagship show for the region, and their staff and crews are the best you could find. It's a tribute to them that Doctor Who is returning."

Head of drama commissioning for the corporation, Jane Tranter, told The Guardian: "In all honesty I had got myself into a proverbial steel jacket as far as Doctor Who was concerned. I told myself I'd be completely and utterly thrilled if it got 6.5 million, but there was a little voice inside whispering '4.5 million'."