10 Actors Who Should Play Doctor Who (But Won't)

8. Hayley Atwell

Doctor Who Ben Whishaw Tardis
ABC

Hayley Atwell is an extremely popular fan-cast for the Doctor, and that's because she'd be absolutely wonderful.

She'd bring so much panache to the Doctor, and she would be a joy to watch. And by all accounts, she's into it. When asked if she would ever want to be a companion on the show, she simply replied, "I'd like to be Doctor Who." Now that's the kind of confidence you expect from the Doctor.

But unfortunately, like most popular fan-casts, it just feels like Atwell is never going to land the TARDIS keys.

Her ongoing role in the MCU as various versions of Peggy Carter - as well as parts in other blockbusters, like the upcoming Mission Impossible sequels - ensure that she's always busy, so committing so much time to Doctor Who would prove a challenge.

But hey, when the show inevitably gets round to the next female Doctor, we wouldn't be shocked to hear that Atwell's name is in the mix - we just don't feel like she'll ultimately win the role.

Contributor
Contributor

Audrey Fox is an ex-film student, which means that she prefers to spend her days in the dark, watching movies and pondering the director's use of diegetic sound. She currently works as an entertainment writer, joyfully rambling about all things film and television related. Add her on Twitter at @audonamission and check out her film blog at 1001moviesandbeyond.com.