Disney Ends ‘Doctor Who’ Collaboration Amid ‘Woke’ Backlash Fears

UPDATE: The BBC has confirmed it has ended its co-production partnership with Disney on the Doctor Who franchise, citing concerns over a potential “woke” backlash as a crucial factor. This decision comes as a response to alarming drops in viewership and a growing sentiment within Disney regarding the series’ future on its platform.

Sources speaking to Deadline revealed that the collaboration, which was expected to revitalize the long-running sci-fi series, has faced significant challenges. “It was pretty apparent from early on that this wasn’t for the long term,” a former Disney executive disclosed. The series reportedly suffered an alarming drop-off in viewership, losing over 1 million viewers since the introduction of Ncuti Gatwa as the 15th Doctor, who replaced Jodie Whittaker in the lead role.

The decision to terminate the partnership raises questions about the future of the iconic series, which has recently embraced more progressive storylines under writer Russell T. Davies. This included casting Yasmin Finney, a transgender actress, and featuring a historic same-sex kiss—elements that some sources claim contributed to the perception that the show became “too woke for Trump’s USA.”

According to insiders, Disney’s internal discussions revealed a consensus that the series was not performing as expected on Disney+. A BBC executive noted the partnership never felt robust, stating, “It never felt like Disney was making much of a deal.” Additionally, a Disney insider expressed regret over the hefty budget of $11.6 million per episode, which many now view as an overinvestment given the lackluster results.

As Doctor Who attempts to navigate this turbulent period, the series faces the challenge of not only retaining its loyal fan base but also attracting new viewers. The latest developments indicate a significant turning point for the franchise, which has been a staple of British television for decades.

The implications of this cancellation extend beyond just the show itself; it highlights the ongoing tension between creative expression and audience reception in today’s media landscape. The question now remains: What will be the next steps for Doctor Who and its creators as they seek to redefine the series in a rapidly changing entertainment environment?

As the news unfolds, fans and industry watchers alike are urged to stay tuned for updates on the future of Doctor Who.