2023 is a special year for Doctor Who. It marks the series’ 60th anniversary, which is being celebrated with three consecutive specials. This year also marks the return of the annual Doctor Who Christmas Special, a tradition that stopped in 2017.
BBC released several photos from this year’s Christmas Special, along with a synopsis of the story. Titled “The Church on Ruby Road,” the episode will mark Ncuti Gatwa’s first appearance as the Fifteenth Doctor. It will also introduce Millie Gibson as the Fifteenth Doctor’s new companion, Ruby Sunday.
What is The Church on Ruby Road About?
The episode synopsis reveals that Ruby Sunday is an orphan who was found abandoned in the snow on Christmas Eve. Now living with her mom, Carla, and her grandmother, Cherry, a chance encounter with the Doctor turns Ruby’s life upside down. This leads to the first of many adventures, as the Doctor runs afoul of the sinister Goblin King. This ties into the larger mystery of Ruby’s birth and her origins.
In addition to Ncuti Gatwa and Millie Gibson, the special will also feature Davina McCall playing herself. The cast is rounded out by Michelle Greenidge as Carla, Angela Wynter as Cherry, and Anita Dobson as Mrs. Flood.
“It is beyond an honour to be asked to appear in not only Doctor Who but also Ncuti’s first episode as the new Doctor,” noted McCall. “It was such an extraordinary experience and Russell has written you all a Christmas delight! Now I just can’t wait for everyone to see it!”
Russell T Davies, the showrunner of Doctor Who, was similarly enthusiastic. “From Day One in this job, I wanted Doctor Who back on Christmas Day,’ Davies proclaimed. “And with Ncuti, Millie, Davina and the Goblin King, I hope it’s a feast for all the family!”
Doctor Who: The Church on Ruby Road airs on December 25, 2023, on BBC iplayer and Disney+.
