Heartstopper star Yasmin Finney has been announced as the latest addition to the Doctor Who cast as it gears up to celebrate its 60th anniversary.
19-year-old Finney, who appears as Elle Argent in the Netflix rom-com series, will be playing the character of Rose, and is filming scenes that will be airing in 2023.
Speaking about her new role, Finney said: “if anyone would have told 8-year-old Yasmin that one day she’d be part of this iconic show, I would have never in a million years believed them.
“This show has a place in so many people’s hearts, so to be seen as a trans actress by the legend himself Russell, has not only made my year, it’s made my life. I cannot wait to begin this journey and for you all to see how Rose blossoms. Get Ready.”
Russell T Davies, who will be taking over from Chris Chibnall as Doctor Who’s showrunner in autumn this year, said it was a “joy” to welcome Finney on board.
“Life on Doctor Who gets brighter and wilder, how can there be another Rose?” he asked.
“You’ll find out in 2023, but it’s an absolute joy to welcome Yasmin to the Doctor Who set. We all fell in love with her in Heartstopper, one of those shows which changes the world - and now Yasmin can change the Whoniverse!”
It is not known what, if anything, links Finney’s Rose with the beloved character of Rose Tyler, who was played by Billie Piper between 2005 and 2013 – and who was one of the first characters to appear on the show when it was revived by Davies in 2005.
However, she will be joining a line-up of new stars, including a new Doctor.
With current lead Jodie Whittaker due to leave in autumn, the show recently announced that her replacement would be Scottish-Nigerian actor Ncuti Gatwa, best known for his portrayal of Eric in Sex Education.
The show’s 60th anniversary celebrations will also see a return of Who favourites from past years, including David Tennant and Catherine Tate, who confirmed earlier this week that they were shooting scenes to be released for 2023.
