The galaxy far, far away is finally returning to theaters with Star Wars: Starfighter, the first feature film in the franchise since The Rise of Skywalker in 2019. Directed by Shawn Levy (Deadpool & Wolverine, Stranger Things) and starring Ryan Gosling in a leading role, this standalone space epic is officially scheduled for release on May 28, 2027, aligning with the 50th anniversary of A New Hope—a symbolic choice aimed at reigniting cinematic enthusiasm for the franchise.
What We Know About the Release
Revealed during Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025, Starfighter is not part of the Skywalker saga or any existing trilogy. Instead, Levy is launching a fresh corner of the Star Wars universe, providing Lucasfilm a long-awaited theatrical reset after years of development delays and canceled projects. Production is set to begin in late 2025, with filming expected to take place at Pinewood Studios in the UK and on-location shoots rumored for Iceland and Jordan.
A New Era, A New Cast
Set roughly five years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker, Starfighter will delve into a previously unexplored timeframe. Levy confirmed that the movie will introduce a completely new roster of characters, unconnected to the Skywalker legacy, Jedi Order, or the New Republic.
Thematically, the story is said to explore survivors of the First Order’s collapse, drifting into lawless systems where starfighter pilots become vigilantes, mercenaries, and makeshift peacekeepers. It’s a gritty, grounded take reportedly inspired by classic war dramas and space westerns, with some insiders describing it as “Top Gun meets Rogue One.”
Ryan Gosling in the Cockpit
Ryan Gosling will play the lead role—an elite starfighter pilot with a shadowy past and conflicted allegiance. While character details are being kept under wraps, Lucasfilm is reportedly positioning him as the moral center of the film, similar to how Cassian Andor evolved in Rogue One. Gosling’s involvement signals a prestige turn for Star Wars, pulling in a Golden Globe winner who’s known for mixing blockbuster charm (Blade Runner 2049) with arthouse credibility (Drive, First Man).
The script is written by Jonathan Tropper, who worked with Levy on The Adam Project and brings emotional nuance and sharp pacing to the table. Tropper has hinted at a character-driven story rooted in “human decisions under galactic pressure.”
Casting Shake-Up: Mikey Madison Exits
Early reports suggested that Mikey Madison (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Scream) was in talks to play a major villain role, but the deal fell through in early negotiations. According to industry insiders, the breakdown came over salary demands and concerns about screen time. The role is now being recast, with names like Jodie Comer and Ana de Armas allegedly being floated.
Other Star Wars Projects in the Pipeline
Starfighter is just one of several major theatrical and streaming projects in development:
- The Mandalorian & Grogu – Jon Favreau’s feature-length continuation of the hit Disney+ series, hitting theaters May 22, 2026. This marks Lucasfilm’s first crossover between its TV and theatrical efforts.
- Untitled Jedi Origins Film – James Mangold (Logan) is still attached to a film exploring the first discovery of the Force, though no date has been announced.
- Daisy Ridley’s Return – A separate film directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy will follow Rey rebuilding the Jedi Order, reportedly taking place 15 years after The Rise of Skywalker.
- Simon Kinberg’s Trilogy – In early development, Kinberg’s unnamed trilogy is said to focus on the politics of the Outer Rim and smuggler guilds, with a noir tone.
A Bold New Flight Path for Star Wars
With Star Wars: Starfighter, Lucasfilm appears to be betting on talent-first storytelling and cinematic spectacle, rather than nostalgia or connective tissue to legacy characters. It’s a strategic pivot—one that echoes the standalone success of Rogue One while injecting fresh blood into the franchise. If Levy and Gosling deliver, Starfighter could become a cornerstone in the next chapter of Star Wars on the big screen.
Stay tuned as casting finalizations, trailers, and production images begin to roll out in the coming months.
Want Something Different? Here’s How To Watch Doctor Who
Looking for ways to travel through time and space with the Doctor? The iconic British sci-fi series Doctor Who has captured hearts for decades, but finding where to watch all episodes can feel like navigating a TARDIS without instructions. You can currently watch seasons 1-13 of modern Doctor Who on HBO Max, with plans starting at $9.99 per month, while newer episodes are set to move to Disney+ in the near future.
If you’re in the United States and eager to start your journey with the eccentric Time Lord, you have several options. Christopher Eccleston’s Doctor and all who followed are available for streaming on HBO Max, though this is changing soon. For those who prefer ownership, Amazon Prime Video offers the option to purchase seasons individually, giving you permanent access to your favorite Doctors and companions.
“Doctor Who” has a long and somewhat complex streaming history, so where you can watch it depends on which era you’re interested in and your location. Here’s a breakdown for viewers in the US:
The Latest Era (Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor and onwards):
- Disney+ is the exclusive home for the newest episodes of Doctor Who outside of the UK. This includes the 60th-anniversary specials (starting with “The Star Beast”) and the current “Season One” (with Ncuti Gatwa). New episodes typically drop weekly.
Modern Who (2005-2022 – Doctors 9-13):
- Max (formerly HBO Max) currently streams the “New Who” era, covering Christopher Eccleston through Jodie Whittaker’s runs (Series 1-13).
- You can also generally buy or rent these seasons on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Video, Fandango at Home, and Google Play.
Classic Who (1963-1989 – Doctors 1-7):
- BritBox: This streaming service specializes in British television and has most of the original 26 seasons of Doctor Who. They also have some animated recreations of lost episodes.
- Tubi: You can find many classic Doctor Who episodes on Tubi, often for free with ads. They also have a “Classic Doctor Who” live channel that streams episodes continuously.
- Some classic episodes may also be available for purchase on other digital platforms.
Important Notes:
- BBC iPlayer is the primary home for all Doctor Who in the UK. If you’re in the UK, this is your go-to.
- Spin-offs: Shows like Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures are often available on Max. The single season of Class can be purchased on Apple TV.
- The 1996 TV Movie: This one is a bit trickier to find legally for streaming in the US.
Due to the show’s long history and evolving streaming rights, it’s always a good idea to check specific streaming services if you’re looking for a particular season or special.
Key Takeaways
- Modern Doctor Who seasons 1-13 are currently available on HBO Max with plans to shift newer content to Disney+ soon.
- You can purchase individual seasons through Amazon Prime Video if you prefer to own rather than stream.
- Availability varies by region, with different streaming platforms offering Doctor Who in different countries.
Overview of Doctor Who
Doctor Who is a beloved sci-fi series that has captured imaginations for decades with its time-traveling protagonist, iconic villains, and thought-provoking stories. The show has evolved significantly since its inception while maintaining core elements that fans love.
The History of Doctor Who
Doctor Who first debuted on the BBC on November 23, 1963, making it one of the longest-running science fiction shows in television history. The original series ran for 26 seasons until 1989. After a TV movie in 1996, the show went on hiatus until its successful revival in 2005.
The concept of regeneration was introduced in 1966 when the First Doctor (William Hartnell) transformed into the Second Doctor (Patrick Troughton). This clever storytelling device has allowed the show to continue for over 60 years with different actors taking on the title role.
The modern era of Doctor Who has seen the show reach new heights of popularity under showrunners like Russell T Davies, Steven Moffat, and Chris Chibnall. In 2023, Davies returned to the show, bringing it to new audiences through a partnership with Disney+.
Key Elements of the Show
At the heart of Doctor Who is the Doctor, a Time Lord from the planet Gallifrey who travels through time and space in the TARDIS (Time And Relative Dimension In Space). This iconic blue police box is famously “bigger on the inside” than the outside.
The Doctor rarely travels alone, typically accompanied by companions who provide a human perspective on the extraordinary adventures. These relationships form the emotional core of many stories.
The show features memorable villains, with the Daleks being the most iconic. Other recurring enemies include the Cybermen, the Master, and the Weeping Angels. Organizations like UNIT (Unified Intelligence Taskforce) occasionally assist the Doctor in defending Earth.
Doctor Who balances adventure, humor, and social commentary, often addressing complex themes within accessible stories. The format allows for incredible variety, with episodes ranging from historical adventures to futuristic space operas.
Impact on Popular Culture
Doctor Who has influenced science fiction in ways comparable to franchises like Star Wars and Marvel. Its concepts, characters, and even sound effects have become embedded in popular culture.
The show has spawned numerous spinoffs including Torchwood, The Sarah Jane Adventures, and Class. Its merchandise spans books, audio dramas, comics, and toys, creating a vast expanded universe.
You can see Doctor Who’s influence across media, from references in other TV shows to its distinctive theme music being instantly recognizable worldwide. The TARDIS and Daleks have become cultural icons even among those who haven’t watched the show.
The series has been praised for its progressive casting choices, including casting Jodie Whittaker as the first female Doctor. Its ability to reinvent itself while honoring its past has helped it remain relevant across generations of viewers.
Current Streaming Platforms
Doctor Who is available on multiple streaming services in 2025, with different platforms offering various seasons and episodes. The show’s availability depends on your location and subscription choices.
Disney+
Doctor Who’s newest seasons are now streaming on Disney+. Since November 2023, this platform became the exclusive home for new episodes outside the UK and Ireland. The service offers the latest season featuring Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor.
Disney+ also includes the 60th anniversary specials with David Tennant. The platform costs $9.99/month for the basic plan with ads or $13.99/month for the ad-free version.
You can access Doctor Who through the Disney Bundle if you prefer a package that includes Hulu and ESPN+. This option gives you more content beyond just Doctor Who.
The streaming quality is excellent, with episodes available in 4K when supported. Disney+ apps work on most smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
BBC iPlayer
In the UK, BBC iPlayer remains the primary platform for watching Doctor Who. The service offers new episodes immediately after broadcast.
BBC iPlayer provides access to classic and modern Doctor Who episodes. You need a UK TV license to use this service legally.
For those outside the UK wanting to access iPlayer, you’ll need a VPN service, though this may violate terms of service. The platform is free to use for UK residents who pay the TV license fee.
The BBC occasionally adds special Doctor Who content like behind-the-scenes features and interviews. Their dedicated YouTube Channel also offers clips and extras for fans worldwide.
Other Viewing Options
Max (formerly HBO Max) currently hosts seasons 1-13 of modern Doctor Who in the United States. Subscription plans start at $9.99/month. This includes all episodes from Christopher Eccleston through Jodie Whittaker’s run.
For classic Doctor Who (1963-1989), Tubi offers most episodes for free with advertisements. For the complete classic collection, BritBox has Doctor Who episodes that Tubi doesn’t include.
Digital purchase options exist through Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play. These platforms let you buy individual episodes or complete seasons to own permanently.
Physical media fans can still find DVD and Blu-ray collections of both classic and modern Doctor Who series. These often include exclusive bonus features not available on streaming services.
The Fifteenth Doctor
The Fifteenth Doctor marks an exciting new era for the beloved sci-fi series. Ncuti Gatwa brings fresh energy to the role as the Doctor continues adventures through time and space with companion Ruby Sunday.
Introducing Ncuti Gatwa
Ncuti Gatwa officially took on the role of the Fifteenth Doctor, making his full-season debut on Disney+ on May 10, 2025. You can watch his adventures exclusively on Disney+, where the latest season drops for viewers worldwide.
Before his full season, Gatwa appeared in special episodes that introduced his version of the iconic Time Lord. His Doctor brings a unique blend of compassion and eccentricity to the TARDIS, with a fashion sense and personality that sets him apart from previous incarnations.
In the new season, you’ll follow the Doctor and Ruby Sunday as they travel across time and space, with stories ranging from England’s Regency era to war-torn future worlds. Gatwa’s performance has been praised for its energy, depth, and charisma.
Impact and Expectations
The arrival of the Fifteenth Doctor has revitalized the Doctor Who franchise, bringing new viewers while honoring the show’s rich legacy. You can expect Gatwa’s Doctor to face both classic villains and entirely new threats as he navigates the universe in his TARDIS.
Critics have noted the fresh perspective Gatwa brings to the role, with many praising the chemistry between his Doctor and companion Ruby Sunday. The writing team has crafted stories that showcase both the Doctor’s brilliant problem-solving abilities and his deep empathy for those in need.
If you’re looking to catch up on the Fifteenth Doctor’s adventures, Disney+ offers the complete new season, while older seasons featuring previous Doctors are available on different platforms. The new era combines modern storytelling techniques with the timeless appeal of Doctor Who’s premise.
Marketing and Promotions
Doctor Who’s marketing strategy combines traditional advertising with innovative digital campaigns to build excitement for new seasons and episodes. These efforts help both longtime fans and newcomers discover where to watch the show.
Trailers and Teasers
The BBC and Disney+ regularly release engaging trailers for Doctor Who on multiple platforms. You can find official trailers on the Doctor Who YouTube channel where they showcase upcoming adventures, new companions, and exciting villains.
These teasers typically debut several weeks before a new season premieres, giving you glimpses of what to expect without revealing major plot points. For the Disney+ era of the show, promotional videos highlight the cinematic quality and increased production values.
When new seasons approach, you’ll also spot Doctor Who trailers during commercial breaks on both BBC and Disney-owned channels. Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter feature shorter, more targeted clips designed to generate buzz among different audience segments.
Collaborations and Crossovers
Doctor Who has expanded its reach through strategic partnerships with other popular franchises and brands. While not directly crossing over with Marvel or Star Wars, the show now shares the Disney+ platform with these major properties, creating new visibility.
The franchise regularly collaborates with toy manufacturers, publishing companies, and clothing designers to create merchandise that serves as walking advertisements for the show. These products often highlight where you can watch the latest episodes.
Comic conventions and fan events frequently feature Doctor Who panels with cast members discussing upcoming seasons. These appearances generate media coverage and social media discussions that increase awareness about the show’s availability on streaming platforms.
Disney+’s acquisition of international distribution rights has led to new promotional tie-ins across Disney’s extensive media empire, introducing the Time Lord to audiences who might not have discovered the show otherwise.
Guides and Resources
Finding the right places to watch Doctor Who and related merchandise can enhance your viewing experience. Many fans want easy access to both classic and modern episodes, along with collectibles that celebrate their favorite Time Lord.
How to Subscribe to a Streaming Service
To watch Doctor Who in the US, you have two main options: BritBox and Max. BritBox is a BBC streaming service that gives you access to top British television, including Doctor Who episodes.
For UK viewers, BBC iPlayer, Virgin TV Go, and Sky Go offer the newest episodes, while classic episodes may be available on different platforms.
When subscribing, look for special bundles that may save you money. The Disney Bundle is worth considering as Disney+ now co-produces Doctor Who with the BBC.
Before signing up, check each service’s terms. You’ll need to provide consent for billing and data collection. Most services offer free trials, giving you time to explore their Doctor Who libraries before committing.
Finding Doctor Who Merchandise
Official Doctor Who merchandise can be found through several reliable channels:
Online retailers:
- BBC Shop
- Character Options
- Forbidden Planet
- Amazon
Physical stores:
- Comic book shops
- Entertainment retailers like HMV (UK)
- Convention vendors
Look for licensed products to ensure quality. The BBC Shop offers exclusive items you won’t find elsewhere, including limited edition collectibles based on both classic and modern series.
Fan-created marketplaces like Etsy feature unique, handmade items that official channels don’t offer. Many creators make custom TARDIS replicas, sonic screwdriver designs, and clothing with clever Doctor Who references.
Always check item authenticity before purchasing expensive collectibles. Legitimate sellers will provide clear photos and detailed descriptions of the merchandise.
Exploring Related Content
Doctor Who‘s universe extends far beyond the main show. When you finish watching the series, there’s a wealth of additional content to dive into that expands the storytelling and characters you’ve come to love.
Spin-Offs and Related Series
If you’re looking for more content in the Doctor Who universe, you have several options. BBC Audio offers a “Beyond the Doctor” range that follows companions after they’ve left the TARDIS.
The expanded Doctor Who universe includes popular spin-offs like:
- Torchwood – A more adult-oriented series following Captain Jack Harkness
- The Sarah Jane Adventures – Family-friendly adventures with former companion Sarah Jane Smith
- Class – Set at Coal Hill School, exploring teenage life with alien threats
You can find many of these spin-offs on the same platforms that host the main series, including Max. Audio dramas from Big Finish Productions also offer hundreds of additional adventures featuring classic and modern Doctors.
Comparing to Other Sci-Fi Franchises
Doctor Who stands apart from other major sci-fi franchises in several meaningful ways. Unlike Star Wars with its defined universe and mythology, Doctor Who embraces change with different Doctors and companions.
While Marvel builds interconnected storylines across multiple platforms, Doctor Who takes a more episodic approach that allows you to jump in at various points. The show’s British sensibilities also give it a different flavor than American-produced sci-fi.
Andor (from the Star Wars universe) shares Doctor Who’s occasional political themes but maintains a consistent tone, whereas Doctor Who ranges from comedy to horror across episodes. The educational elements that sometimes appear in Doctor Who episodes remind viewers of National Geographic documentaries when the show explores historical settings.
Your experience with Doctor Who can be enhanced by understanding these differences. The show’s flexibility in tone and setting makes it uniquely accessible compared to other franchises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Doctor Who fans have several options for watching the beloved time-traveling series in 2025. The show has moved between different streaming platforms over the years, creating some confusion about where to find specific seasons.
On which streaming services is Doctor Who currently available?
Doctor Who is available on multiple streaming platforms. Seasons 1-13 of Modern Who are available on HBO Max, though this arrangement may change.
The series has also begun appearing on Disney+, especially newer episodes. Some classic Doctor Who episodes can be found on Tubi and BritBox.
How can viewers legally watch Doctor Who without a subscription?
You can legally watch Doctor Who without a subscription by purchasing individual episodes or seasons.
All the DVDs can be purchased or watched through Amazon Prime as a one-time purchase rather than requiring an ongoing subscription. This gives you permanent access to the content.
Physical media collections remain popular among dedicated fans who prefer owning their favorite episodes.
Where can I find the first season of Doctor Who to watch?
The first season of modern Doctor Who (2005) with Christopher Eccleston is available on HBO Max.
If you’re looking for the very first season from 1963 with William Hartnell, you’ll find most of these classic episodes on BritBox or Tubi.
Physical DVD collections are another reliable option for accessing the earliest seasons.
Has Doctor Who been made available on Disney Plus?
Yes, Doctor Who has been added to Disney+. The newer episodes, including the 60th anniversary specials, are now streaming on the platform.
According to search results, Doctor Who was supposed to move to Disney+ around November alongside the release of the 60th anniversary content. This marks a significant shift in the show’s streaming availability.
The Disney+ release represents the latest home for new Doctor Who content going forward.
Are all the seasons of Doctor Who accessible on HBO Max?
Not all seasons of Doctor Who are on HBO Max. The platform currently hosts seasons 1-13 of Modern Who (2005-2022).
The classic Doctor Who seasons (1963-1989) are not available on HBO Max. These older episodes require different streaming services or physical media purchases.
The availability may change as streaming rights continue to shift between platforms.
Did the Doctor Who series get removed from Amazon Prime’s free content?
Yes, Doctor Who is no longer available as part of Amazon Prime’s free content library.
While you can still purchase Doctor Who episodes and seasons through Amazon, they are not included with the Prime subscription. This change reflects the ongoing movement of the series between different streaming platforms.
You’ll need to pay separately for each episode or season you want to watch on Amazon.
