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The ´óÏó´«Ã½ today revealed that the companion for the forthcoming series of Doctor Who will be Karen Gillan.

Twenty-one-year-old Gillan will star alongside new Time Lord, Matt Smith, when the smash hit drama returns to ´óÏó´«Ã½ One in spring 2010.

With filming due to begin this summer, Gillan beat off dozens of hopefuls to land one of television's most coveted roles.

Gillan said: "I am absolutely over the moon at being chosen to play the Doctor's new companion. The show is such a massive phenomenon that I can't quite believe I am going to be a part of it.

"Matt Smith is an incredible actor and it is going to be so much fun to act alongside him – I just can't wait to get started!"

Lead writer and Executive Producer, Steven Moffat, added: "We saw some amazing actresses for this part, but when Karen came through the door the game was up. Funny, and clever, and gorgeous, and sexy. Or Scottish, which is the quick way of saying it. A generation of little girls will want to be her. And a generation of little boys will want them to be her too."

Executive Producer and Head of Drama ´óÏó´«Ã½ Wales, Piers Wenger, said: "We knew Karen was perfect for the role the moment we saw her. She brought an energy and excitement to the part that was just fantastic. And when she auditioned alongside Matt we knew we had something special. It is a partnership that is ready to take on the universe!"

The new series of Doctor Who comes to ´óÏó´«Ã½ One, Spring 2010.

Notes to Editors

There are three further specials of the current Doctor Who starring David Tennant that will be broadcast on ´óÏó´«Ã½ One between Autumn 2009 and the end of the year.

Biography of Karen Gillan is available upon request.

MO