Former "Doctor Who" screenwriter Mark Gatiss doubts that the BBC's announced search for a new production company will lead to the show's quick return. In his opinion, the situation could repeat the events after 1989, when the channel also intended to continue the show, but it eventually disappeared from screens for a long time:
"The fact that 'Doctor Who' had a second run lasting 21 years is amazing in itself. The show returned and perhaps became even more popular than during its initial broadcast. But I think it's time for a break, because all good things come to an end. [...] The BBC announced back then that they were going to take 'Doctor Who' through the nineties. The show was put up for tender, and then everything just quietly fizzled out. I have a feeling the same thing might happen now."
At the same time, Gatiss doesn't think "Doctor Who" will disappear forever. On the contrary, a new prolonged break, in his opinion, could benefit the show and give viewers time to miss it:
"I sound very gloomy, but it's true. It's fine. The show has already successfully returned once, so it will return again someday. Perhaps it needs a full break: people need to miss it and fresh ideas need to emerge."
The BBC intends to select the next producer of "Doctor Who" through an open competition, but the dates for its conduct have not yet been announced.