And so the news is out.
After months of speculation, the BBC has announced in spectacular style the person who will be taking over the role of Doctor Who in December.
And it wasn’t Kris Marshall, as had been hotly. Nor was it Idris Elba.
No instead, it was Broadchurch star Jodie Whittaker, which means we have the first ever female Doctor Who.
The shock news was revealed in a special clip that followed the Men’s Wimbledon Final today.
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In the clip viewers saw a hooded figure strolling through a woods.
Then after a close up of a key materialising in the person’s hand, the figure pulls back their hood to reveal Jodie Whittaker.
The internet was awash with gasps of surprise, with many squealing with glee that a woman had finally snagged the role.
New head writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall who takes over from Steven Moffat on the next series made the decision to cast the first ever woman in the iconic role
Meanwhile, others poked fun at some of the fans who were up in arms over the change of gender.
One said: “Breaking news: misogynists around the world abandon fictional show because they hired a woman to play the lead alien.”
While another said: “Not sure what is more entertaining – the joy of Jodie Whittaker being cast as the the Doctor or grown men throwing tantrums over it.”
Another fan put it succinctly: “About time. Perfect choice. Welcome aboard, Jodie”.
Chris Chibnall, New Head Writer and Executive Producer said: “After months of lists, conversations, auditions, recalls, and a lot of secret-keeping, we’re excited to welcome Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor.
“I always knew I wanted the Thirteenth Doctor to be a woman and we’re thrilled to have secured our number one choice.
“Her audition for The Doctor simply blew us all away.
“Jodie is an in-demand, funny, inspiring, super-smart force of nature and will bring loads of wit, strength and warmth to the role.
“The Thirteenth Doctor is on her way.”
The thrilled actress, who grew up in Yorkshire and starred in Broadchurch, added: “I’m beyond excited to begin this epic journey – with Chris and with every Whovian on this planet. It’s more than an honour to play the Doctor.
“It means remembering everyone I used to be, while stepping forward to embrace everything the Doctor stands for: hope. I can’t wait.’
Ex-Doctor Peter Capaldi, who is leaving the series, was full of praise for his replacement.: “She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part.
“She’s going to be a fantastic Doctor.
“Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker’s work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm.
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Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content is excited about the show’s new direction: ‘Making history is what Doctor Who is all about and Chris Chibnall’s bold new take on the next Time Lord is exactly that.
‘The nation is going to fall in love with Jodie Whittaker – and have lots of fun too!’
While Controller BBC Drama Piers Wenger gushed: “Jodie is not just a talented actor but she has a bold and brilliant vision for her Doctor.
“She aced it in her audition both technically and with the powerful female life force she brings to the role.
“She is destined to be an utterly iconic Doctor.”