Trans actress Bethany Black lands Doctor Who role

British transgender actor Bethany Black has announced she will appear as a guest character in the ninth episode of the new season of Doctor Who, scheduled for a September 19 kick-off.

Pictured in front of the TARDIS, the actress and comedian, seen most recently as Helen Brears on Russell T Davies’ hit shows Cucumber and Banana, shared the news on Facebook.

“Now to sit back and wait until The Mail realises the BBC have cast an openly trans lesbian in a family show,” she said.

Black’s appearance is the first time a trans actor has starred in history of the long-running BBC One sci-fi series, which debuted in 1963.

The episode details remain under wraps, but it has been written by Mark Gatiss (Sherlock) and directed by Justin Molotnikov (Merlin, Shameless).

Filmed on location in Cardiff at BBC Wales, other guests joining Black include include Maisie Williams (Game of Thrones), Reece Shearsmith (The League Of Gentlemen), Paul Courtenay Hyu (Coronation Street) and Elaine Tan (Entourage),

Returning to the role of the Doctor is Peter Capaldi, alongside Jenna Coleman as his trusty companion, Clara Oswald.

The BBC reports that Season 8 of Doctor Who last year drew an average audience of 7.4 million viewers in the UK alone, making it one of the broadcaster’s most successful programs.

Words by TROY NANKERVIS.