When will Doctor Who season 11 premiere? Not when we thought it might

It looks like we might have to wait a few weeks longer for the new season of Doctor Who than we originally thought.

For months now, we’ve all had the idea that Doctor Who would be back sometime in the Fall. Most of us probably assumed at some point around the end of August. This is because, traditionally, that’s been the case in recent years. Seasons 8 and 9, as well as the second halves of seasons 6 and 7, all transmitted in late August or early September. But that looks like that won’t be the case for season 11.

Despite the recent launch of a new logo and the release of a new image featuring Jodie Whittaker’s Thirteenth Doctor, the BBC has yet to announce a premiere date for the series’ next season. But we do still have a bit of information on that topic. During the same BBC Worldwide Showcase conference in Liverpool that gave us the new logo, some eagle eyed sleuths spotted a clue.

New showrunner Chris Chibnall took part in a panel discussion with new Doctor Whittaker. And the panel behind them appears to be reveal when season 11 will launch.

“Doctor Who: A New Dawn” the graphic reads. “Delivered October 2018.”

Here’s some graphic evidence for those who want more a more visual style of proof:

As mentioned above, October is a bit of a later than usual start date for Doctor Who. We don’t know the reasons behind this shift, but they’re likely similar to those fueling the (completely unconfirmed) rumors about the series moving nights this fall. Doctor Who struggled somewhat in the ratings during the Capaldi era, and it’s possible the BBC wants to give the new series — with its groundbreaking new female Doctor — its best chance. (And possibly a more consistent timeslot.)

Perhaps the corporation wants to get the sci-fi series out of the way of Strictly Come Dancing. Or maybe everyone involved is thinking of moving it to Sundays, and that’s the first slot the BBC has free. We won’t know anything for sure until we get an official airdate, which likely won’t be for several months. (My money’s on an announcement of some type at San Diego Comic Con in July, to be honest.)

But it’s still exciting to have something a bit more concrete to count down toward, at any rate.

Next: Doctor Who: Could Olivia Colman show up in season 11?

Doctor Who will return in (probably October) on BBC One and BBC America.