The world blown away as the identity of the 13th Doctor Who has been revealed

Broadchurch star Jodie Whittaker is to be the first ever woman to play Doctor Who, it has been announced.

The identity of the 13th Time Lord was revealed on BBC One and on social media around the world after the Men's Wimbledon Final today.

She will be the 13th Time Lord and take over from Peter Capaldi, who leaves the global hit show at Christmas after holding the role since 2013.

New head writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall, who takes over from Steven Moffat on the next series, made the decision to cast the first ever woman in the iconic role.

He said: "I always knew I wanted the 13th Doctor to be a woman and we're thrilled to have secured our number one choice. Her audition for The Doctor simply blew us all away. Jodie is an in-demand, funny, inspiring, super-smart force of nature and will bring loads of wit, strength and warmth to the role. The 13th Doctor is on her way."

The 35-year-old, who was born in Skelmanthorpe, West Yorkshire, trained at the Guidhall School of Music and Drama and made her professional debut in the play The Storm at the Shakespeare's Globe theatre 12 years ago.

She said: "I'm beyond excited to begin this epic journey - with Chris and with every Whovian on this planet. It's more than an honour to play the Doctor.

"It means remembering everyone I used to be, while stepping forward to embrace everything the Doctor stands for: hope. I can't wait."

Current Doctor, Capaldi, also praised the actress for her work.

He said: "Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker's work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm.

"She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She's going to be a fantastic Doctor."

Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content said: "Making history is what Doctor Who is all about and Chris Chibnall's bold new take on the next Time Lord is exactly that.

"The nation is going to fall in love with Jodie Whittaker - and have lots of fun too!"

• This article was first published on nzherald.co.nz and is republished here with permission.