"Doctor Who" season 9 may be Jenna Coleman's Clara Oswald's last - at least that's how many interpret Peter Capaldi's recent comments. But was it really what the Doctor meant?
Whovians the world over got worried by something Capaldi said in an interview with website Doctor Who News:
"The thing that is tricky about the Doctor and his relationship with companions. You know, Christopher Eccleston said in his first episode, 'I can see... everything. All there has ever been and all there ever will be. And that drives me mad.'"
"So in a way, the Doctor knows the fate of all of his companions. That makes it... difficult. But [with Clara] he is deliberately enjoying the relationship and this great toy box of time and space that they can explore together. But of course, as it's 'Doctor Who,' there is an ever deepening shadow pursuing them."
Many took Peter Capaldi's comment as an omen that Jenna Coleman won't be returning after "Doctor Who" season 9. According to Metro, the 29-year-old actress didn't have a namecard in a script read-through which reportedly fueled speculation on her character's future.
Fans may recall that Coleman almost left the BBC sci-fi series last year but changed her mind at the last minute.
So is "The Impossible Girl" about to give up her spot as The Doctor's companion? CarterMatt doesn't think so.
"We interpret Capaldi's comment here as that all of the Companions die... eventually. That doesn't mean that they are going to die tomorrow or the day after."
As the website noted, humans do grow old and die at some point as opposed to Time Lords who have two hearts and the ability to regenerate when on the brink of death.
But like all companion before her, Clara Oswald will eventually give way to another companion. For now though, fans can look forward to a more "reckless" Clara next season.
"Doctor Who" season 9, starring Peter Capaldi and Jenna Coleman, will premiere in September 19 on BBC America.
