Doctor Who fans don’t have long to wait for the much-anticipated spin-off, The War Between the Land and the Sea.
The BBC has confirmed that the drama, masterminded by Doctor Who showrunner and executive producer Russell T Davies, will premiere on December 7.
The five-part series features Russell Tovey in the role of Barclay, an ordinary UNIT staff member whose life is thrown into chaos when an ancient species emerges from the sea, reports the Daily Record.
Barclay finds himself acting as humanity’s representative when the enigmatic Salt (portrayed by Gugu Mbatha-Raw) surfaces from the Tank during a summit on the Thames. UNIT, under the leadership of Kate Lethbridge-Stewart (Jemma Redgrave), battles for control as humanity teeters on the brink of annihilation.
Davies, who co-wrote 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 also teased the series on Instagram, telling fans that the climax of the series was “shattering”.
“War, revenge, betrayal, pearls, submersibles, romance, a treacherous No. 10 and a plastic apocalypse, WATCH THE SEAS!” he adedd.
The cast also includes Ruth Madeley as Shirley Bingham, Alexander Devrient as Colonel Christofer Ibrahim, and Colin McFarlane as General Austin Pierce. Other 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 announcement, with many sharing enthusiastic messages across social media platforms declaring: “Can’t wait.”
“The early Christmas present,” one person penned on Instagram, whilst another chimed in: “BRING IT ON!”
“Really glad to hear it’s coming soon!” remarked a third. “So excited,” expressed someone else. Another admirer observed: “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.