The BBC has confirmed that Scottish actor David Tennant is to take over the title role of Doctor Who from Christopher Eccleston at the end of the current season.

An announcement about Ecclestons departure from the revived show was reportedly the source of acrimony when it was made by the BBC shortly after the premiere episode was broadcast in the United Kingdom. Ever since, rumors have circulated that Tennant, currently starring in another BBC production, Casanova, was being lined up as his replacement. Casanova was written by Russell T. Davies, executive producer and head writer on Doctor Who.

It was previously suggested that Ecclestons last appearance as the Doctor might be in a special episode to be shown in the U.K. at Christmas. According to the Web site Outpost Gallifrey, however, Tennant will star in this. If Eccleston does appear, therefore, it might only be to regenerate as Tennant. As the Who identity has been passed between actors throughout the shows 40 year history, the regeneration scene has become traditional. The current series was unusual in that it did not feature one.

Tennant was quoted on the BBCs official Doctor Who Web site as saying he was chuffed to bits and delighted, excited and honored to be playing the 10th incarnation of the Doctor. The Web site announcement was made on his 34th birthday. He also appeared in the BBCs recent live remake of The Quatermass Experiment and a 2002 animated production of Doctor Who called Scream of the Shalka."

Doctor Who is broadcast Canadas CBC channel on Tuesdays at 8 p.m.