UPDATE: Fans of Doctor Who are buzzing with excitement after Anita Dobson hinted at the possible return of her character, Mrs. Flood, who is revealed to be the formidable Rani. This surprising development is generating significant interest as the beloved series prepares for its anticipated comeback during the Christmas 2026 special.
In a recent interview with the Radio Times, Dobson shared her astonishment at the character’s evolution from a seemingly minor role to a major antagonist. Initially introduced as Ruby Sunday’s quirky neighbor in “The Church on Ruby Road,” Dobson’s Mrs. Flood caught viewers’ attention with her unexpected TARDIS knowledge and fourth-wall-breaking moments. By the end of Ncuti Gatwa‘s run as the Fifteenth Doctor, Mrs. Flood was unveiled as a cunning villain, the Rani, played stylishly by Archie Panjabi.
The climactic episode, “The Reality War,” saw the Panjabi version of the Rani meeting a dramatic fate at the hands of Omega, but Mrs. Flood managed to escape, leaving the door open for a return. Dobson remarked on her initial ignorance regarding the character’s true nature, stating, “For the first series, I was oblivious… But it wasn’t until I read the last few scripts of that series that I found out, and I was completely shocked.”
While specifics about the upcoming special remain under wraps, Dobson expresses her eagerness to reprise her role. “Anything is possible. And if Russell asked me now, I’d be out that door so quick,” she stated, referring to returning showrunner Russell T Davies. Fans are left wondering what new twists await them, especially with the return of familiar faces like Billie Piper and the uncertainty surrounding who will embody the Doctor moving forward.
The Doctor Who fandom is rife with speculation about the direction of the show, particularly after the mixed reception of “The Reality War.” Some fans suggest it might be best to leave Mrs. Flood behind, arguing that the series should focus on innovative villains rather than revisiting less compelling characters.
As anticipation builds for the Christmas 2026 special, one thing is clear: the Doctor Who universe is full of surprises and potential. With Dobson’s comments sparking renewed interest, fans are eager to see how the story unfolds. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the return of Doctor Who!
