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Steven Moffat, who's been lead writer and executive producer of Doctor Who since Season 5 in 2010, has announced that he will depart the long-running sci-fi series at the end of Season 10. Chris Chibnall, producer of the hit series Broadchurchwill replace Moffat.
Moffat said in a release, "Feels odd to be talking about leaving when I'm just starting work on the scripts for season 10, but the fact is my timey-wimey is running out. It took a lot of gin and tonic to talk (Chibnall) into this, but I am beyond delighted that one of the true stars of British Television drama will be taking the Time Lord even further into the future."
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The announcement comes just weeks after Moffat said in an interview that he was "actively engaged" in the search for a new leader but he wouldn't be leaving immediately; for his part Chibnall sounded excited to be named head writer and executive producer.
"I've loved Doctor Who since I was four years old, and I'm relishing the thought of working with the exceptional team at BBC Wales to create new characters, creatures and worlds for the Doctor to explore.. it's a privilege and a joy to be the next curator of this funny, scary and emotional family drama."
Moffat's final season will air on BBC AMERICA and BBC One in Spring 2017, with a Christmas Special in 2016. Chibnall's debut season will launch in 2018.