BBC
One of the most anticipated casting announcements happened earlier this year, when Jodie Whittaker was confirmed as the next Doctor – becoming the first woman to step into that role in over 50 years. While there was the expected pushback from *ahem* certain fans, others were incredibly excited. Some people even responded by expressing a new, or renewed, interest in the series. It is a huge step in the right direction for representation, and something we should celebrate. As we all impatiently await further details about Whittaker’s Thirteenth Doctor, it’s the perfect chance to familiarize yourself with the accomplished British actress.
Who is Jodie Whittaker?
Jodie Whittaker is a 34 year old actor from Yorkshire, who made her professional debut a little over a decade ago at Shakespeare’s Globe in London. She trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and graduated with the gold medal for acting. Whittaker’s acting credits include roles in film, television, and the stage.
What are Some Must-See Jodie Whittaker Performances?
Broadchurch
Den of Geek
Whittaker’s performance in this amazing iTV series brought me to tears within the first five minutes. Broadchurch follows an investigation into the murder of a young boy and the effect is has on his small community. Whittaker plays Beth Latimer, the child’s mother, in an absolutely heartbreaking performance. The series also featured former Doctor Who stars David Tennant and Arthur Darvill, and was created by future showrunner Chris Chibnall.
Venus
iMDB
Venus was Whittaker’s first big screen role, one that won her a slew of award nominations, including a British Independent Film Award and a Critics Circle Award. The film also starred acting legend Peter O’Toole. Acting opposite O’Toole may have been a challenge for some, but critics praised Whittaker for “holding her own against” him.
Wired
TMDB
This incredibly compelling iTV mini-series featured Whittaker in her first role as a series lead. She plays Louise Evans, a single mom who gets caught up in a massive fraud investigation after stealing £3,000 from a former employer. The series also features Toby Stephens and Riz Ahmed.
Black Mirror
Vox
Many Black Mirror fans consider “The Entire History of You” to be one of best episodes of the series. The episode takes place in a reality where every moment of our lives is recorded; accessible whenever we want to revisit key moments, including in the middle of heated arguments. Whittaker and Toby Kebbell play a couple trying to make it work in a world where you can use everyone’s words against them.
Trust Me
The Sun
Trust Me is a four-part drama, currently airing on BBC One. Whittaker plays Cath Hardacre, a whistleblower fired from her job as a nurse and desperate to remain in the healthcare profession while still caring for her family. Cath resorts to desperate measures, stealing her best friend’s identity and becoming a doctor at a local hospital. Things go well; that is, until her old life comes back to haunt her. Reviews of the first few episodes were quite positive, with many praising Whittaker’s ability to play Cath as sympathetic yet calculating.
Bonus: Attack the Block
io9
Attack the Block is a sci-fi film starring Whittaker and John Boyega, in his debut role. The film follows residents of South London as aliens begin to invade. It’s a horror/comedy movie, also featuring Nick Frost, with overwhelmingly positive reviews.
When Will We See Jodie Whittaker as The Doctor?
Peter Capaldi’s final episode as the Doctor, “Twice Upon a Time” (which, by the way, is a missed chance for a really good Twelfth Night pun but whatever) airs on Christmas. The next series, featuring Whittaker as the Doctor, will premiere in late 2018.
But I Want To See More Jodie Whittaker Now!
Whittaker has a ton of film and television credits to her name, many of which are easily accessible
