HBO Signals Possible Future for Iconic Sci-Fi Series

The network's response to Doctor Who rumors suggests the show may have a path forward after Disney+.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:07am

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After rumors of Disney+ stepping away from Doctor Who, the iconic sci-fi series found itself adrift. But recent comments from HBO boss Casey Bloys have reignited hope, hinting that the network may be interested in a potential partnership with the BBC to keep the show going.

Why it matters

Doctor Who has survived numerous cancellations and revivals over its 41-season run, and its future on streaming has been uncertain. HBO's openness to the possibility of picking up the series signals that the show still has value in the global market, even if its path forward remains unclear.

The details

Bloys' response to the Doctor Who rumors was careful, saying the show 'has not been presented to us' but adding 'never say never.' This industry hedge suggests HBO may be keeping the door open for future discussions, even if no formal talks have happened yet. Meanwhile, the BBC has hinted that broader conversations about the show's future are underway, though no specific deals have been finalized.

  • In a recent interview, HBO boss Casey Bloys commented on the Doctor Who rumors.
  • A 2026 Christmas special for Doctor Who, written by Russell T Davies, has already been confirmed by the BBC.

The players

Casey Bloys

The chief content officer at HBO, who commented on the possibility of the network picking up Doctor Who.

Russell T Davies

The acclaimed writer who is set to pen a 2026 Christmas special for Doctor Who.

BBC

The British public broadcaster that owns the rights to Doctor Who and is exploring the show's future options.

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What they’re saying

“'It has not been presented to us. As with anything, I would say 'never say never' — it's just not something that I know about.'”

— Casey Bloys, Chief Content Officer, HBO

“Conversations — broad ones, exploratory ones — are happening somewhere. Maybe not formal pitches, nor spreadsheets and signatures, but enough to keep HBO in orbit.”

— Lindsay Salt, BBC Executive

What’s next

The BBC is expected to make further announcements about the future of Doctor Who in the coming months, as the network explores potential partnerships and the show's long-term direction.

The takeaway

While the future of Doctor Who remains uncertain, HBO's openness to the possibility of picking up the series suggests the iconic sci-fi show still has value and potential for a comeback, even after the mixed reception of its recent Disney+ era.