Steven Moffat QUITS Doctor Who after six years but will Peter Capaldi leave with him?

Showrunner Steven Moffat has quit Doctor WHO.

The writer - WHO took over from Russell T Davies in 2010 - can leave the show formally in 2017 once new BBC tv controller Charlotte Moore determined to delay consequent series till the spring.

Moffat - WHO conjointly helms private detective for the channel - can turn out his sixth and final series before being replaced by Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall.

The show has suffered declining ratings since Moffat took over - falling from highs of eleven million to lows to four million - tho' the BBC's own audience Appreciation Index has it collectively of the foremost extremely rated in enjoyment for viewers.

Describing his role as “the best job within the universe”, Steven said: “The truth is, my timey-wimey is running out.

“While Chris is doing his last run of Broadchurch, I’ll be polishing off and keeping the TARDIS heat for him.”

Read more: Next Doctor WHO series delayed till 2017 for show boss Steven Moffat's massive finale

He joked that it had taken “a ton of gin and tonic” to speak Chris into the duty, adding: “I am on the far side delighted one among truth stars of British tv drama are taking the Time Lord even additional into the longer term

“Chris can become the new showrunner. and that i are thrown during a skip.”

It is not however known  if current Doctor Peter Capaldi can stay with the show once Moffat's final series, or whether or not a brand new actor can take over the role.

The BBC has been contacted for comment.

However, the move conjointly suggests that the family sci-fi show will come to its Sat repast slot following criticism concerning it being ventilated last year at 8pm.

New boss Chris Chibnall said: “Steven has been a blinding and daring showrunner, and hearing his plans for 2017 it’s clear he’ll be going out with a bang. simply to form my life troublesome.”

Read more: As Steven Moffatt steps down WHO is new Doctor WHO head Chris Chibnall?

Bosses had antecedently thought of screening six episodes of the series this year and also the rest in 2017. there's still expected to be a Christmas special this year.

New BBC channels boss Charlotte Moore said: “I have determined to schedule Steven’s massive finale series in spring 2017 to bring the state along for an enormous event on the channel.

This year is spoilt with national moments as well as the Euros and Olympiad and that i need to carry one thing massive back for 2017.”

The 8pm interval last year – caused by Strictly come back diversion – junction rectifier to a ratings slump

.