Here's Why Hugh Grant Refused to Star in Doctor Who Only to Regret It Later

Although we all know and love Doctor Who today as a British sci-fi staple, there were times when the show's fate wasn't so obviously positive. Although it had been on the air since 1963, the show was canceled by the BBC in 1989 due to low ratings and the network's commercial struggles.

It was not until 2005 that Russell T Davies, along with a strong and passionate creative team, brought the New Who to British television and made everyone fall in love with the quirky, human-like alien all over again. However, it took some time to convince people that the show was worth giving a chance, including the actors.

Did Hugh Grant Star in Doctor Who?

Just like many other British household names, Hugh Grant was offered a role in Doctor Who early on. However, it was not just any role the actor was invited for, but the leading role of the Doctor himself. As the alien changes his appearance through the course of his life thanks to regeneration, Grant could’ve become a new face of a franchise.

However, back in the day he passed on this opportunity and continued developing his acting career in a different direction. It was not until 2007, when in the interview with Digital Spy the actor admitted he regretted the decision.

“I was offered the role of the Doctor a few years back and was highly flattered. The danger with those things is that it's only when you see it on screen that you think, 'Damn, that was good, why did I say no?' But then, knowing me, I'd probably make a mess of it,” he said.

But for all the fans of the show today, that's nothing to worry about. First of all, Grant said in the same interview that he would be open to joining the universe to play a villain. Second, as long as the show goes on (and we can definitely hope that it will continue for many years to come, given the partnership with Disney Plus), there is a chance that the actor could secure the role.

For now, however, Doctor Who is following the story of the 15th Doctor, portrayed by Ncuti Gatwa. The actor has already starred in one full season and is expected to return for another in 2025. What happens after that remains a mystery.

If you want to keep up with all the news and updates on Doctor Who, be sure to keep an eye out. Tune in to Disney Plus to watch the latest season of Doctor Who online.

Source: Digital Spy