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Disney+ Ends ‘Doctor Who’ Partnership as BBC Sets 2026 Christmas Special

The BBC signals a reset on funding and global distribution after Disney’s exit.

Overview

  • Disney+ confirmed it will not partner on further seasons after two co-produced runs, while the BBC announced a 2026 Christmas special written by Russell T Davies and reiterated its commitment to the series.
  • Spin-off The War Between the Land and the Sea is still due this year on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with Disney+ carrying it in some territories.
  • Disney+ will continue to stream the two seasons and related specials produced under the original deal in regions where it holds rights.
  • The BBC has not announced a renewal, casting for the 2026 special, or long-term creative leadership, stating that details will follow in due course.
  • The 2022 Disney-BBC pact covered two seasons plus a spin-off and reportedly lifted budgets to around £10 million per episode, with Bad Wolf producing and BBC Studios handling international sales going forward.