Coronation Street star Millie Gibson has revealed her first job since leaving the soap - and her former co-stars 'couldn't be prouder'. It was revealed during Children In Need's live telethon on BBC One on Friday night (November 18) that the actress will be Doctor Who's new companion.
Millie, who exited the cobbles in September after three years playing Kelly Neelan, has landed the role of Ruby Sunday and will star alongside Ncuti Gatwa, who was revealed as the 15th Doctor earlier this year. The 18-year-old will make her debut over the festive season in 2023 when Ncuti takes control of the Tardis.
Speaking of her new role, Millie said: "Whilst still being in total disbelief, I am beyond honoured to be cast as the Doctor’s companion. It is a gift of a role, and a dream come true, and I will do everything to try and fill the boots the fellow companions have travelled in before me. And what better way to do that than being by the fabulous Ncuti Gatwa’s side, I just can’t wait to get started."
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Doctor Who's showrunner Russell T Davies was also full of praise for the show's newest star. "It’s the great honour of my job to find the next generation of talent, and Millie shines like a star already. She’s brilliant, dynamic, clever and a wonderful actor. As a Coronation Street fan, I’ve seen Millie survive chases, guns and sieges, but that’s nothing compared to what lies ahead for Ruby Sunday."
Taking to Instagram, Millie shared the first official photos of herself leaning up against the iconic Tardis. Another image showed her alongside Ncuti as the pair prepare to make their debuts in the hit BBC One sci-fi series.
Millie's former Corrie co-star Georgia Taylor, who plays Toyah Habeeb in the ITV soap, was among the first to respond, writing: "Bursting with pride for you my darling, brilliant, fearless girl." Nina Lucas actress Mollie Gallagher replied: "MILLIE AMAZING AMAZING OMG!!! I am sooooo happy for you I can’t cope."
Samia Longchambon, who has spent more than 20 years playing Corrie's Maria, said: "Sooo happy for you Mills!" alongside a string of hearts, flame and applause emojis. Charlotte Jordan, who stars as Daisy Midgeley, commented: "Bursting with joy! Gwaaaan Baby G!" While Asha Alahan actress and Millie's bestie Tanisha Gorey typed: "AWWWW MY BABY."
Shona Platt actress Julia Goulding penned: "YES GIBBO!! Absolutely thrilled and not at all surprised. So so proud of you!" Max Turner star Paddy Bever shared: "Immensely proud of you. so deserved." And Charlie De Melo, who left the soap as Imran Habeeb earlier this year, tweeted: "I'm struggling to think of a single time, in my entire life, that I've been prouder. Love you so very much @MillieGibson01, you absolute diamond! (Nay, RUBY!) @bbcdoctorwho are so so lucky to have you."
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