BBC responds to Doctor Who spoiler complaints

The BBC has issued a statement after receiving complaint that its own coverage spoiled the end of the latest season of Doctor Who.

The Ncuti Gatwa-led series recently concluded its second season with the Sex Education star in the lead role. Sadly it was Gatwa’s last spin around the universe in the TARDIS, as at the end of the finale he regenerated (SPOILER ALERT!) into Billie Piper’s Rose Tyler.

The reveal came as a shock to most fans watching who had no idea who would be taking over the role of the Time Lord in any (unconfirmed) seasons of the popular series.

However, some fans had the big reveal spoiled for them on the night the finale aired by the BBC themselves. The BBC News website featured an article bearing the headline “Ncuti Gatwa regenerates into Billie Piper as he leavesDoctor Who“.

Now, in response to the anger from Doctor Who fans, the BBC has issued a somewhat defensive statement.

A representative told Digital Spy, “Some people contacted us to complain that the headline gave away the ending, spoiling thisDoctor Whoepisode for them. Others requested that the BBC be more conscious of spoilers going forward, particularly in the use of headlines.”

The statement went on to say that the story about Gatwa’s departure was “a legitimate entertainment news story in its own right.”

Showing little regard for fans who hadn’t watched the finale live, the BBC added “it is not unusual that we would carry this type of story once a programme has been broadcast and the details in the public domain.”

The BBC also defended its coverage saying the story had included a spoiler alert. Though, such an alert is less effective if the content is revealed in the headline.

“BBC journalists are of course entitled to use their judgement to decide which stories to cover and the manner in which they are reported,” the BBC continued.

It then said: “We also want our headlines to be as informative as possible. Although every story is different, we have discussed your concerns on this occasion with senior editors and we will be mindful of your views for future coverage.”

The future of Doctor Who is uncertain as no announcements have been made about future seasons.

Doctor Whoshowrunner and writer Russell T Davies recently addressed the future of the beloved British sci-fi series. In a column forDoctor Who Magazine, Davies said he isn’t sure what will happen next, but is confident that it “will never end.”

He added, “Hopefully, we’ll have news soon.”

Doctor Who is streaming now.