The wait is almost over for Doctor Who fans, as the next season of the beloved sci-fi series is set to premiere on April 12th on Disney Plus and the BBC. The new season, starring Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor, will introduce a new companion and an intriguing cartoon villain, marking a fresh direction for the show.

Belinda Chandra, played by Andor's Varada Sethu, will join the Doctor on an epic quest to return to Earth, according to the official plot synopsis. The season will consist of eight episodes, with new episodes dropping weekly. Notably, Millie Gibson will also return as Ruby Sunday, adding to the excitement surrounding the new season.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the upcoming season is the introduction of Mr. Ring-a-Ding, a cartoon character played by Alan Cumming. Described as a "happy, funny, singalong cartoon," Mr. Ring-a-Ding takes a dark turn when he becomes aware of the real world outside his cinematic existence, leading to terrifying consequences. This unique villain adds a fresh layer of complexity to the Doctor Who universe.

This will be Gatwa's second season as the Doctor, following his debut in the role last year. The new season comes at a busy time for streaming TV, with the next season of Andor hitting Disney Plus on April 22nd and The Last of Us returning for season 2 on HBO on April 13th. Doctor Who fans will be eager to see how the show stands out in this competitive landscape.

In addition to the new season, a spinoff series called The War Between The Land And The Sea is also in the works, further expanding the Doctor Who universe. With its rich history and dedicated fan base, the show is poised to continue its success on Disney Plus and the BBC.

As the world of streaming TV continues to evolve, the return of Doctor Who is a significant event, offering a unique blend of science fiction, adventure, and humor. With its new companion and cartoon villain, the show is set to captivate audiences once again, solidifying its place as a beloved and enduring franchise.