Time Lords can switch gender: BBC shuts down complaints about new Doctor Who

The BBC received a number of complaints after announcing the first female Time Lord. Photo / Getty/BBC

The controversy surrounding Doctor Who's first female protagonist has led BBC to release an official response.

Addressing a complaint regarding the casting of Jodie Whittaker as the new Doctor, the BBC reminded viewers of a detail that any self-respected Doctor Who fan should know: Time Lords can switch gender.

Meet the Thirteenth Doctor #DoctorWho #Doctor13 pic.twitter.com/txHGz9tJEe

— Doctor Who Official (@bbcdoctorwho) July 16, 2017

"Since the first Doctor regenerated back in 1966, the concept of the Doctor as a constantly evolving being has been central to the programme," the BBC said in its reply.

"The continual input of fresh ideas and new voices across the cast and the writing and production teams has been key to the longevity of the series."

"The Doctor is an alien from the planet Gallifrey and it has been established in the show that Time Lords can switch gender," the broadcaster added.

'Doctor' has no gender in English.

— Merriam-Webster (@MerriamWebster) July 17, 2017

"As the Controller of BBC Drama has said, Jodie is not just a talented actor but she has a bold and brilliant vision for her Doctor. She aced it in her audition both technically and with the powerful female life force she brings to the role. She is destined to be an utterly iconic Doctor.

"We hope viewers will enjoy what we have in store for the continuation of the story."

Whittaker will be the 13th Time Lord and take over from Peter Capaldi, who leaves the global hit show at Christmas after holding the role since 2013.