NCUTI Gatwa has been confirmed as the next Doctor Who, the fourth Scot to play the iconic role.

Gatwa, who grew up in Edinburgh and Dunfermline, is the first person of colour to take on the role in its nearly 60-year history.

Best known for his role as Eric in the Netflix comedy Sex Education, Gatwa will take over from Jodie Whittaker when she steps down from the role.

Born in Rwanda, the 29-year-old studied acting at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) in Glasgow.

He said: “There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared.

“This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care. I will endeavour to do my utmost to do the same. 

“Russell T Davies is almost as iconic as the Doctor himself and being able to work with him is a dream come true.

“His writing is dynamic, exciting, incredibly intelligent and fizzing with danger. An actor’s metaphorical playground.

“The entire team have been so welcoming and truly give their hearts to the show. And so as much as it’s daunting, I’m aware I’m joining a really supportive family.

“Unlike the Doctor, I may only have one heart but I am giving it all to this show.”

Professor Jeffrey Sharkey, RCS principal, said Gatwa would be a "brilliant role model". 

“We’re thrilled and incredibly proud of Ncuti taking the helm of the Tardis and with it one of the best-loved roles in British TV," said Sharkey. 

“He’ll be such a brilliant role model and it’s lovely to see him join fellow RCS alumnus David Tennant in the famous Dr Who footsteps.”

Gatwa was also congratulated by Scottish Culture Secretary Angus Robertson, who said on Twitter: “Congratulations to Ncuti Gatwa on becoming the new Dr Who.

“Great to see success of this young Scottish acting talent and graduate of Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.”

Russell T Davies, Doctor Who showrunner, added: “The future is here and it’s Ncuti.

“Sometimes talent walks through the door and it’s so bright and bold and brilliant, I just stand back in awe and thank my lucky stars.

“Ncuti dazzled us, seized hold of the Doctor and owned those TARDIS keys in seconds.

“It’s an honour to work with him and a hoot. I can’t wait to get started.”

Davies promised an “epic” finale for the outgoing Whittaker but it has not yet been confirmed when she will finish her time on the show.

Other Scots to have taken on the famous role are Peter Capaldi, David Tennant and Sylvester McCoy.