BBC Appeal Raises Over £33 Million with Doctor Who Sketch and Star Appearances
David Tennant reprised his role as the Doctor in a special Doctor Who sketch to raise funds for the BBC’s Children In Need appeal, which has already gathered more than £33 million. The segment, written by series showrunner Russell T Davies, featured Tennant’s Time Lord unexpectedly landing at the “genesis of the Daleks” during the live fundraising event on Friday.
Tennant, who originally became the 10th Doctor in 2005, was seen humorously breaking a newly-created Dalek with his Tardis, as actor Mawaan Rizwan’s character brainstormed a name for the iconic creature. The sketch highlighted Tennant’s regeneration into the 14th Doctor, continuing from the BBC centenary special that concluded Jodie Whittaker’s era last year.
The appearance comes ahead of Tennant and Catherine Tate’s return for three special Doctor Who episodes airing on November 25, leading up to Ncuti Gatwa’s debut as the next Doctor.
Children In Need’s show also featured a range of performances and celebrity appearances, including Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne Pinnock, who performed “My Love” with young dancers from a charity project. Presenter Vernon Kay celebrated raising over £5 million for the cause through an ultra-marathon challenge, while the Princess of Wales opened the event with a heartfelt message about supporting children’s well-being and development.
