Emmerdale actress Jenna-Louise Coleman confirmed as new Doctor Who companion – Daily TV Round-up

Jenna-Louise Coleman has been confirmed as the new ‘Doctor Who' companion.

The former 'Emmerdale' actress, best known for her lesbian storyline on the rural soap, will join the 2012 series of the BBC sci-fi drama.

She will replace the popular Karen Gillan, who has played the Timelord's sidekick Amy Pond since 2010.

"I want to get started already" said Jenna. "I'm a huge fan of the show".

"Matt Smith did my audition with me. It was fun and I felt like we were in it together"

The official Doctor Who Twitter account also confirmed that there would be six episodes later this year, then a Christmas Special in which the new companion will make her debut, followed by eight more episodes next year.

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Head Writer Steven Moffat said, "It always seems impossible when you start casting these parts, but when we saw Matt and Jenna together, we knew we had our girl. She's funny and clever and exactly mad enough to step on board the TARDIS.

"It's not often the Doctor meets someone who can talk even faster than he does, but it's about to happen. Jenna is going to lead him his merriest dance yet. And that's all you're getting for now. Who she's playing, how the Doctor meets her, and even where he finds her, are all part of one of the biggest mysteries the Time Lord ever encounters. Even by the Doctor's standards, this isn't your usual boy meets girl."

Moffat also confirmed that former companion Amy Pond and her husband Rory will exit the show in episode five when they meet the Weeping Angels once again. He also said, "Not everyone gets out alive and I mean it this time."

According to reports, Coleman impressed the show's producers with her chemistry with ‘Doctor Who’ actor Matt Smith, and follows in the footsteps of past sidekicks including Catherine Tate and Billie Piper.

Coleman is also set to appear in 'Downton Abbey' writer Julian Fellowes' new ITV drama based on the Titanic.

Danny Cohen, Controller, BBC One, adds "As we approach Doctor Who's 50th anniversary it's great to welcome a new companion to the TARDIS. I feel confident the Doctor will look after her in his own very unique style. "

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