Ncuti Gatwa has been hailed an "inspiration" as he officially left his Sex Education role ahead of his Doctor Who debut later this year.
The Rwandan-Scottish actor is taking the keys to the Tardis after playing icon Eric Effiong in the Netflix drama since it launched in 2019 - appearing in every series since.
It led to Ncuti being awarded Best Actor Award at the Scottish BAFTA’s in 2020 as well as numerous nominations including Best Male Performance in a comedy programme at this year’s BAFTAs.
Taking to Instagram on Friday with a picture of a dressing room door, he told his 2.6 million followers and fans: "Last day. Last time. Bye bubs, thank you for all the lessons and for all the strength."
Many people were quick to react including Doreen Stock, who plays his on screen mother, saying: "Playing Your Mother, watching you grow over the years, going from strength to strength King, has been delightful and a privilege. We’ve shared many a laugh and Eric Effiong tears. It’s been a JOY."
Someone else wrote: "Season 4 has to be the last because this show is nothing without you. Thank you for bringing Eric to life".
Another posted: "The doctor is in." A fourth said: "You and him have changed the world", and another added: "You are an inspiration".
Meanwhile a fan thanked him, saying: "Your character was such an important one and I'm so so happy I got to see you light up the screen for 3 seasons. Thank you for everything you have done and given this character."
Doctor Who returns in November 2023 for the show's 60th anniversary with three special episodes featuring David Tennant as the Fourteenth Doctor.
The Fifteenth Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa, will then take control of the Tardis at Christmas with scenes currently filming in Bristol.
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