The BBC has cast Ncuti Gatwa as the newest Doctor in “Doctor Who,” the network announced on Sunday. Gatwa, 29, is best known for his role as Eric Effiong in Netflix’s hit show “Sex Education,” for which he earned a Best Actor Award at the 2020 Scottish BAFTAs. 

“There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling,” Gatwa said in a statement. “A mix of deeply honored, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared.” 

Gatwa, who is Rwandan and Scottish, will be the 14th doctor and the first Black doctor in the show’s 59-year history. He will be replacing Jodie Whittaker, the first female doctor, who worked on the show for three seasons. On the show, the “doctor” is a time traveler who can switch bodies, allowing for the network to easily replace the lead.  

“This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care,” said Gatwa. “I will endeavor my utmost to do the same.” 

Doctor Who has been around since 1963, and is entering its 39th season. It’s developed a cult following of fans who watch religiously to see the doctor travel through space and time in his classic British telephone booth, known on the show as TARDIS. 

“Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds,” said Showrunner Russell T Davies. “It’s an honor to work with him, and a hoot, I can’t wait to get started.” 

Gatwa will officially be taking over the TARDIS beginning in 2023.