Indira Varma joins Doctor Who as "The Duchess"

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 26 May 2023

Indira Varma joins the cast of Doctor Who playing a "mysterious" new character called The Duchess.

Indira Varma has joined the cast of the next series of Doctor Who playing a "mysterious" character known as The Duchess.

Filming is currently ongoing for the next full series of the show, which features Ncuti Gatwa as The Doctor and Millie Gibson as new companion Ruby Sunday.

Varma has previously appeared in the Whoniverse, having starred as Suzie Costello in spinoff Torchwood, and is also known for cult shows including Game of Thrones and Obi-Wan Kenobi.

"I'm thrilled to be in Doctor Who and particularly excited to be crossing cosmic paths with Ncuti, as The Doctor, and look forward to creating interplanetary mischief with him," she said.

"I loved playing Suzie Costello for Russell T Davies in Torchwood so am thrilled to be entering this world again."

Showrunner Davies added: "I'm overjoyed to be reunited with Indira after our Torchwood days, and this part is truly spectacular! A whole new audience will be hiding behind the settee when the Duchess unleashes her terror."

Doctor Who returns for three special episodes with David Tennant this November, with Gatwa taking over in the Christmas special and the new series following in early 2024.

Media Mole Low-Price Offer: Get Sky Entertainment, Sky Stream & Netflix for just £19 a month + £0 upfront fee for 18 months!
Prices may change during this period. Ends 23rd May 2024