Share Showrunner, Chris Chibnall, said: 'It's time for the next chapter of Doctor Who, and it starts with a man called Dan. Oh, we've had to keep this one secret for a long, long time. 'Our conversations started with John even before the pandemic hit. The character of Dan was built for him, and it's a joy to have him aboard the TARDIS.' Pained: It comes after John vowed to return to work within weeks on Thursday amid his Covid-19 battle, his wife Melanie is also battling the virus (the couple pictured last year) While executive producer of BBC Studios, Matt Stevens, added: 'It's been a total joy having John join the cast and we've been having a lot fun on set already. We can't wait for you to meet Dan when the show returns later this year.'