BEFORE she takes on the role of a perpetually regenerating Timelord, Jodie Whittaker is to star in a Scottish drama in which she impersonates a real medical doctor and there will not be a tardis in sight.
Ms Whittaker's next TV role will be in a new BBC One drama called Trust Me, which was shot in Scotland earlier this year.
In the show, shot in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Whittaker - best known for her role in Broadchurch - will star as Cath Hardacre, a skilled nurse, who, having lost her job steals her best friend’s identity as a senior doctor and start a new life in Edinburgh.
The show will be broadcast next month.
She said: "I'm so excited to be a part of this project.
"It's an incredibly challenging piece with a fantastic cast and crew.
"I haven't played a role like this before.”
Trust Me was written by a doctor, Dan Sefton.
Sefton said: "Having worked as a doctor within the NHS for most of my adult life, I know only too well that it provides the perfect setting for a contemporary drama - the characters, the often literal pain - as well as the affection and dedication of staff.
"Trust Me shows all of that but its central story is Cath, a decent, honourable woman who, when everything is falling apart, takes a huge risk in search of a better life."
The news comes as the actor Colin Baker, a former Doctor Who, has criticised the "sad" reaction to some fans to the casting of Jodie Whittaker as the fictional time traveller.
Ms Whittaker has been unveiled as the first actress play the part, and portray the 13th Doctor.
However, although largely greeted warmly, some people have reacted negatively to the news.
Baker, 74, who starred as the Doctor from 1984 to 1986, said on Twitter: "Cannot deny that I am amazed by the 'never watch it again' reaction by some viewers (I hesitate to call them 'fans'). Very sad."
And he added: "To those making 'parking the Tardis' jokes - name me one male Doctor that was unfailingly good at that."
Whittaker will take over from Peter Capaldi as the 13th reincarnation of the Time Lord at Christmas.
Former Doctor Sylvester McCoy wrote on Twitter: "Congratulations Jodie Whittaker!!!! One small step for women, one giant leap for womenkind!"
Gillian Anderson, John Boyega, Riz Ahmed and David Harewood also approved of the casting, with Boyega, who starred in Attack The Block with Whittaker, writing: "So proud of Jodie Whittaker, she's going to be awesome."
Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh joked: "Anyone publicly objecting to a female Doctor Who should just buy a t-shirt emblazoned with 'I'm a virgin who expects never to get laid.'"
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