Doctor Who: Peter Capaldi is next Doctor

It has been confirmed that Peter Capaldi is to be the12th doctor of Doctor Who.

06:29 06 August 2013

Peter Capaldi will replace Matt Smith as the doctor of BBC sci-fi series Doctor Who. The 55-year-old actor, who is best known for his role in The Thick of It, was announced as the new doctor in a special half-hour show.

Peter said that after his agent called confirming that he landed the role he “started to laugh” and that he has not “stopped laughing since”.

He added: "Being asked to play the Doctor is an amazing privilege. Like the Doctor himself I find myself in a state of utter terror and delight. I can't wait to get started.”

Meanwhile, the show’s executive producer and lead writer has revealed that Capaldi had been cast after a secret audition at his house.

"One of the most talented actors of his generation is about to play the best part on television."

"We made a home video of [Capaldi] being the doctor and I showed it around and everyone said 'yes, that's the Doctor'.

On the other hand, outgoing Doctor Matt Smith wished the new doctor all the best. In a pre-recorded message, he said: "I wish my successor all the best and say good luck and good on you for getting it, because I know he's both a huge fan of the show and a really nice guy.”

"The casting made me ready excited and as a fan I think it's a canny choice. If I had to pick someone, I'd pick him because I think he's great. I'm excited because I know what's coming and he's going to have a blast."