'Doctor Who' showrunner Steven Moffat leaving in 2017 - CNET

"It took a lot of gin and tonic to talk him into this, but I am beyond delighted that one of the true stars of British television drama will be taking the Time Lord even further into the future," Moffat added. "At the start of season 11, Chris Chibnall will become the new showrunner of 'Doctor Who.' And I will be thrown in a skip."

Chibnall has plenty of previous experience with "Doctor Who," as he was the co-producer and writer on the spin-off series "Torchwood."

He also has written several episodes of "Doctor Who," including the fan-favorite "Dinosaurs on a Spaceship" episode.

But most endearing to viewers is the revelation that Chibnall is a die-hard "Doctor Who" fan himself and even appeared with the Doctor Who Appreciation Society in 1986 on the BBC's Open Air program discussing the series' widespread appeal.

"It's a privilege and a joy to be the next curator of this funny, scary and emotional family drama," Chibnall told BBC America. "I've loved 'Doctor Who' since I was four years old, and I'm relishing the thought of working with the exceptional team at BBC Wales to create new characters, creatures and worlds for the Doctor to explore.

"Steven's achieved the impossible by continually expanding Doctor Who's creative ambition, while growing its global popularity," Chibnall added. "He's been a dazzling and daring showrunner, and hearing his plans and stories for 2017, it's clear he'll be going out with a bang. Just to make my life difficult."

Chibnall's debut season will launch in 2018.