DAVID TENNANT - DAVID TENNANT TO QUIT AS DOCTOR WHO AFTER 2009 SPECIALS

DAVID TENNANT TO QUIT AS DOCTOR WHO AFTER 2009 SPECIALS

David Tennant has announced he is to step down as Doctor Who, after the filming of four special episodes next year.

The Scottish actor made the announcement after claiming the outstanding drama performance prize at the National Television Awards (NTAs).

"When Doctor Who returns in 2010 it won't be with me," he said.

"Now don't make me cry," he added. "I love this part, and I love this show so much that if I don't take a deep breath and move on now I never will, and you'll be wheeling me out of the Tardis in my bath chair."

Speaking to the BBC later, he said he felt he was leaving the role at "about the right time" after three years as the Time Lord.

"I think it's better to go when there's a chance that people might miss you, rather than to hang around and outstay your welcome," he explained.

His time in the Tardis had been "the most extraordinary time, it's been bewildering, life changing, very exciting".

"And just so much fun, such a great show to work on.

"That's one of the reasons I think it's right to take a deep breath and bow out when it's still fun, when it's a novelty.

"I don't ever want it to feel like a job, so I want to move on when it still feels exciting and fresh and that means I'll miss it."