11:51AM, May 21, 2008
Russell T Davies, the man behind Doctor Who's extraordinarily successful comeback is due to step down. The lead writer and executive producer will leave before show's fifth series.
Not unexpectedly he will be succeeded by acclaimed writer Steven Moffat, who picked up a Writer Award at this year’s BAFTAs for episode Blink.
Davies said; "It's been a delight and an honour working with Steven, and I can't wait to see where his extraordinary imagination takes the Doctor."
For Moffat this is a dream come true. "My entire career has been a Secret Plan to get this job. I applied before, but I got knocked back 'cos the BBC wanted someone else. Also I was seven."
"Anyway, I'm glad the BBC has finally seen the light, and it's a huge honour to be following Russell into the best - and the toughest - job in television."
Moffat's plans for the fifth series, due to air in 2010, are already underway. In the meantime, Davies will stay on board until the specials planned for next year have been completed.
