The BBC has announced the second bit of casting news for the new season of Doctor Who, along with the first four writers. Matt Lucas will reprise his role as Nardole from the Christmas special as a series regular. Stephanie Hyam will guest star as an unspecified role. Steven Moffat will write the first episode (directed by Lawrence Gough); Frank Cottrell-Boyce will write the second. Sarah Dollard and Mike Bartlett will write for the second filming block (which is not necessarily the second to air). Filming starts next Monday. Matt Lucas commented,
I’m chuffed to bits that Nardole is returning to the TARDIS for some
more adventures. I loved acting with Peter and I’m excited to work with
Pearl.
Steven Moffat said,
Delighted and slightly amazed to be welcoming Matt Lucas back on to the
TARDIS - and this time it’s not just for Christmas, he’s sticking
around. One of the greatest comedy talents on planet Earth is being
unleashed on all of time and space.
The BBC has confirmed that Joivan Wade, who played graffiti artist Rigsy in last year's episode Flatline will return in episode 9x10 later this year. They've also stated that the episode will be written by Sarah Dollard (Being Human, The Game) and directed by Justin Molotnikov (previously reported here). Dollard commented,
Getting to play in the Doctor Who toy box is a dream come true. It’s a
total honour to contribute to a show that has brought me such joy as a
fan. However, writing for Peter Capaldi and Jenna Coleman has presented a
serious problem: some days I've been too excited to actually sit down
and type!
