Former Doctor Who stars react to casting of Jodie Whittaker

An array of former Doctor Who stars are reacting on Twitter to Sunday’s announcement that Jodie Whittaker will become the first woman to play the titular lead role of the long-running science fiction show. Among them? Colin Baker, who portrayed the Doctor in the mid-’80s. “Well I never the BBC really did do the right thing and let the Doctor be in touch with her feminine side,” wrote Baker. “As a father of daughters – result!”

The actor’s enthusiasm for Whittaker’s casting was echoed by the actress’ Broadchurch costar Arthur Darvill, who portrayed the character of Rory Williams on Doctor Who and who wrote, “Yes Jodie.” Further approval has been expressed by Billie Piper, who played Rose Tyler, simply writing, “YES” while Pearl Mackie, who played the Doctor’s most recent companion Bill Potts, wrote “Gwaaaan #jodiewhittaker #doctor 13.”

GALLERY: Doctor Who: Every Actor Who’s Played the Time Lord

As previously reported, the choice of Whittaker has been given the thumbs-up by the actor she will replace, Peter Capaldi. “Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker’s work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm,” the actor said in a statement issued by the BBC. “She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She’s going to be a fantastic Doctor.”

Whittaker will make her as the Doctor on this year’s special Christmas episode, which will be broadcast by BBC America, Dec. 25. See a sampling of social media reactions below.

Doctor Who alums weren’t the only ones celebrating the casting news.

Doctor Who returns with a Christmas special on Dec. 25 on BBC America.