8 Doctor Who Actors Who Were Fired Or Quit

Matt Lucas arrived in the world of Doctor Who as a one-off character and associate to Professor River Song in "The Husbands of River Song" Christmas Special. That came in season nine, but Lucas had staying power, and it wasn't long before Nardole returned as a friend of the 12th Doctor.

He remained as a companion for the entirety of season 10 and its preceding Christmas special, "The Return of Doctor Mysterio." Nardole had an important job as the Doctor's companion; he was there to look after him following River's death, and he also brought along some seriously talented comedic wit, earning him a great deal of fan adoration.

Unfortunately for Lucas, a changing of the guard meant his character's time on the TARDIS had come to an end. He and Bill ended up being something of a package deal, so when Chris Chibnall came on board to direct the series, all the old companions got the boot.

Like Mackie, he wasn't necessarily fired and was instead written off the series. He had a lovely sendoff as a memory who appeared alongside Clara and Bill in "Twice Upon A Time" to send the Doctor off in as sentimental a fashion as possible.