“Stargate” and “Independence Day” producer Dean Devlin has responded to a recent report in The Times (via Cultbox) that his Electric Entertainment label was in talks with The BBC about producing the next iteration of “Doctor Who”.
The original report also indicated David Tennant had been approached to return as the Time Lord, though the extent of his involvement wasn’t clear. The series used a ‘bi-generation’ twist a few years ago that could allow for Tennant to step back into the role at any point.
Devlin has now responded to those reports, telling The Radio Times that while his company hopes to have a discussion with the BBC, no talks have happened:
“It is untrue that we have had negotiations with the BBC. Preliminary or otherwise. When the proper time comes when they are prepared to speak with people, we certainly hope to have a discussion with them.”
That would suggest the Tennant talk is pure speculation. On TV, Devlin produces a number of series like “Leverage,” “The Librarians” and “The Ark” which launched its third season the other week. Tennant worked with the company on the film “Bad Samaritan”.
The BBC has previouslys stated it is putting “Doctor Who” out to competitive tender, “as part of securing the next phase of the show for future generations”.
All this follows on from a recent interview with WHO Corner to Corner by the show’s former showrunner Chris Chibnall who says the Beeb is keen to revive the show but economically can’t afford it: “It’s very hard for the BBC to fund their programs right now… what you’ve got is the BBC can’t afford to fully fund any drama now, and it certainly can’t afford to fund Doctor Who… The BBC wants to make Doctor Who. Don’t be in any doubt about that.”
