Doctor Who Christmas Special 2025: Breaking a Two-Decade Tradition

26 December 2025 Television

A Historic Break in Doctor Who Tradition

For the first time in two decades, Christmas 2025 will mark the first time that there’s not a special broadcast at all over the festive period. This significant shift marks a departure from the beloved tradition that began with “The Christmas Invasion” in 2005, leaving fans without their annual holiday adventure with the Doctor.

Why No Christmas Special This Year?

There will not be a 2025 Doctor Who Christmas special, as the BBC announced that following the May 2025 finale, the show will now be on hiatus. The decision comes after the show’s next Christmas Special wasn’t packaged in with the 2025 series commission. This marks a notable change in the show’s production schedule and its partnership structure.

Disney Partnership Ends

The absence of a 2025 special coincides with significant changes behind the scenes. Disney+ confirmed they will not be partnering on the next season of the sci-fi show, ending their collaboration after two seasons. Despite this, the BBC remains fully committed to Doctor Who and has reassured fans that the Time Lord’s adventures will continue.

What to Watch Instead

While there’s no traditional Doctor Who Christmas episode, fans aren’t entirely left without festive content. Russell T Davies’ Doctor Who spinoff series, The War Between The Land And The Sea, starring Russell Tovey, launched on BBC iPlayer and BBC One in December, offering a holiday alternative for Whovians.

Looking Ahead to Christmas 2026

The good news is that Doctor Who will be back on screens at Christmas 2026 with a special episode written by Russell T Davies. Davies shared that his current commitments have prevented him from writing the special, as he’s busy on other projects. However, showrunner Davies has confirmed he knows exactly what will happen in the episode, building anticipation for the Doctor’s festive return. Plans for the next full series will be announced in due course, ensuring the TARDIS continues its journey through time and space.