50 Actors Who Could Play the Next Doctor on Doctor Who

In HBO series “Game of Thrones”, Richard Madden played the fan favorite (and sadly doomed) Robb Stark. (Photo: HBO)

Richard Madden

Richard Madden is such a perfect choice to play the Doctor that it’s almost like he was assembled in a lab. The former Game of Thrones star is a talented actor, extremely easy on the eyes, and already beloved by nerds everywhere. What more could you possibly want? Madden’s turn as tragic King in the North Robb Stark broke all of our hearts. (To be honest, some of us still aren’t over it.) He definitely deserves another chance to play a world-saving hero, and Thirteen seems just about perfect for him.

Madden is also apparently a huge fan of the show. He has long been rumored as a favorite potential replacement for Capaldi. (We’re talking like several years worth of rumors. That’s a lot of smoke if there’s no fire. Just saying.) And it’s easy to see why – he certainly ticks a lot of boxes when it comes to a casting wish list. He’s young, charming, very good looking, and he comes with his own built in fanbase from Game of Thrones. He’s also a big sci-fi nerd, apparently, lending a certain element of sincerity and Whovian camaraderie that really just cannot be faked.

Interestingly enough, Madden used to date former Who companion Jenna Coleman. So he’s definitely familiar with the stressful schedules and promotional obligations that come with the role. And he still reportedly wants the part anyway! (And now that Coleman’s gone on to star in her own show – the period drama Victoria – his addition to the Who cast wouldn’t be nearly as weird.)