Comedian, John Bishop is joining the TARDIS for Doctor Who Series 13, as new companion, Dan.

He’ll be travelling alongside Jodie Whittaker’s Thirteenth Doctor and Mandip Gill as Yasmin Khan. This isn’t a massive surprise, as Bishop has been seen on location for filming of the next season; however, this is the first time he’s been confirmed as a new ongoing character.

John says:

“If I could tell my younger self that one day I would be asked to step on board the TARDIS, I would never have believed it. It’s an absolute dream come true to be joining Doctor Who and I couldn’t wish for better company than Jodie and Mandip.”

Chris Chibnall, showrunner, adds:

“It’s time for the next chapter of Doctor Who, and it starts with a man called Dan. Oh, we’ve had to keep this one secret for a long, long time. Our conversations started with John even before the pandemic hit. The character of Dan was built for him, and it’s a joy to have him aboard the TARDIS.”

The news was revealed at the end of the New Year’s Day special, Revolution of the Daleks.

Bishop is best-known as a stand-up comedian, but he’s appeared in a few acting roles, including Skins, Comedy Showcase, and Fearless.

Matt Strevens, Executive Producer, BBC Studios, says:

“It’s been a total joy having John join the cast and we’ve been having a lot fun on set already. We can’t wait for you to meet Dan when the show returns later this year.”

Doctor Who Series 13 began filming in November 2020.

John will make his first appearance later in 2021.