Billie Piper wants ‘ruddy powerhouse’ Helena Bonham Carter to replace Jodie Whittaker in Doctor Who

Doctor Who fans shouldn’t bet on Billie Piper returning to the sci-fi programme anytime in the near future, but she has recommended that Helena Bonham Carter be the next Time Lord.

The 38-year-old singer-turned-actress – who previously played the part of Rose Tyler in the series – ruled out ever reprising the role in an interview with Total Film magazine.

Even though fans may be disappointed, Billie did say that she thinks Helena Bonham Carter should become the next Doctor after Jodie Whittaker.

She told the magazine: ‘She’s got that madcap energy – she’s a ruddy powerhouse.’

Billie explained that Doctor Who requires a certain level of commitment and influence that no longer suits her.

‘It’s the face of a family show and that’s a lot of responsibility that I’m not comfortable with,’ she said.

Billie previously starred alongside Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant on the BBC show for multiple seasons.

The actress – who has Eugene, nine, and Winston, 12, with ex-husband Laurence Fox, and Tallulah, two, with Johnny Lloyd – also hates the idea of spending time away from her kids.

‘I wouldn’t go back. It’s a great role, but you’re away from your kids for so long. My experience was that you were in Wales for nine months solid.

‘And as a job it dominates your life. It’s mainstream family viewing so you can’t really escape it. It feels like it makes you very, very famous.’

Billie revealed that her kids aren’t interested in ‘Doctor Who’ either.

She said: ‘They certainly don’t give a s*** about my music career. They don’t like seeing me in Doctor Who, and I have pushed that on them a number of times.

‘My elder son would get very upset that I was being chased or scared or attacked, so I thought, “OK, this is a weird mental leap for you.”’

While nothing has been confirmed, it was reported back in January that Jodie Whittaker is set to step down from the role after three years at the end of the next series.

While further details have yet to be confirmed, fans have been busy speculating who could take over her role.

I May Destroy You star Michaela Coel emerged as the early favourite to replace her, followed closely by Noel Clarke, who previously played Micky Smith in the franchise.

Since then, Kris Marshall emerged as favourite to step into the TARDIS.

Doctor Who is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.

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