Doctor Who fans could be forced to wait until 2022 for the next series because of delays to filming caused by the Covid safety regulations.
Shooting on the episodes, starring Jodie Whittaker, 38, as the Time Lord, is due to kick off next month, according to insiders.
But with scenes taking twice as long to film, it is feared it will take a “miracle” to produce a full set of episodes next year.
Producers are also struggling to work out how they can make the same number of shows within the budget, as costs relating to the pandemic are spiralling.
With the last series taking 11 months to shoot, sources think the next will take quite a bit longer as the huge crew observes social distancing across numerous locations.
One source said pushing the show back to 2022 was looking increasingly likely, adding: “Shooting safely is a slow process. If there is a series finished and ready to go next year it will be nothing short of a miracle.
“And it’s going to cost a fortune.” But last night a BBC source said: “Filming is going ahead as planned and we remain hopeful that the next series will air in 2021.”
Fans of the BBC sci-fi show, which features Mandip Gill, 32, as the Doctor’s sidekick Yaz, are set for a Christmas or New Year special this year – Revolution of the Daleks – as it was filmed before the Covid outbreak.
Doctor Who will return this winter on BBC One.
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