The new series from Doctor Who’s Russell T Davies is coming soon and fans can’t wait
Doctor Who fans have just weeks to wait for highly anticipated spin-off The War Between the Land and the Sea.
The BBC has announced that the drama, which was created by Doctor Who showrunner and executive producer Russell T Davies, will be unveiled on December 7.
The five-part series sees Russell Tovey star as Barclay, a low-level UNIT staff member whose ordinary life becomes a world of terror when an ancient species rises from the sea.
Barclay becomes humanity’s ambassador when the mysterious Salt (played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw) emerges from the Tank at a summit on the Thames. UNIT, which is led by Kate Lethbridge-Stewart (Jemma Redgrave), fights for control as humanity faces destruction.
Davies, who penned the series with executive producer Pete McTighe, said: “We’re so proud to launch this show at the height of the schedules – and then all five episodes will combine to make a terrific box set to watch over the Christmas holidays!”
He added on Instagram that its climax would be “shattering”. “War, revenge, betrayal, pearls, submersibles, romance, a treacherous No. 10 and a plastic apocalypse, WATCH THE SEAS!” he told fans.
Other cast members include Ruth Madeley as Shirley Bingham, Alexander Devrient as Colonel Christofer Ibrahim, and Colin McFarlane as General Austin Pierce. Previously announced stars include Adrian Lukis, Patrick Baladi, Francesca Corney, Mei Mac, Vincent Franklin, Waleed Hammad, Iestyn Arwel, Hannah Donaldson, Manpreet Bachu, and Ann Akinjirin.
Fans were thrilled at the news, with many posting messages on social media exclaiming: “Can’t wait.”
“The early Christmas present,” one wrote on Instagram, as someone else added: “BRING IT ON!” “Really glad to hear it’s coming soon!” said another.
“So excited,” said someone else.
Another fan commented: “Mannnnn getting to write/develop spin-offs for Doctor Who is THE dream job. Russell, you are one lucky man, and you never forget it! Love seeing whatever you produce or write for this universe, seriously!!”
The War Between the Land and the Sea is set to launch with a double bill on Sunday December 7 from 8.30pm simultaneously on BBC iPlayer and BBC One, and exclusively on Disney+ outside of the UK (where available) in 2026.