Rumours are swirling that Harry Styles may step into the TARDIS as the lead in an upcoming reboot of the iconic sci-fi series Doctor Who. Backed by Amazon MGM Studios and the BBC, the show is expected to launch a fresh take on the franchise, tentatively titled Dr Who.
The reboot will reportedly introduce a brand-new storyline, a different set of companions, and a reimagined vision for the series. If confirmed, Styles would portray the "first" Doctor in this new continuity, marking a significant departure from the long-running series’ established timeline. While the BBC has yet to officially comment on the casting, fans are already speculating about what the pop star-turned-actor could bring to the role.
Harry Styles captivates the crowd with his electrifying performanceGetty Images
Styles, known for his Grammy-winning music career and roles in films like Dunkirk and Don’t Worry Darling, is no stranger to taking on creative challenges. Addressing the speculation, he expressed excitement about the possibility of joining the franchise. “I’ve always been drawn to stories about time, identity, and adventure. Taking on Dr Who would be an incredible experience, and I can’t wait to travel through time in something other than a tour bus,” he said.
Current Doctor Who lead Ncuti Gatwa, set to wrap up his tenure later this spring, responded to the news with enthusiasm. “Harry’s got the look already, he dresses like he’s from another dimension! If he’s stepping into the Doctor’s shoes, I think fans are in for something really special,” he remarked.
BBC Director-General Tim Davie hinted at big changes for the series. “We’re turning the page on a new chapter of one of our most beloved shows. Dr Who will bring fresh stories while keeping the heart of what makes the series great,” he said. Meanwhile, Amazon MGM Studios’ Head of Television, Vernon Sanders, praised Styles’ potential involvement, noting that his global appeal and creative vision align with the show’s ambitious direction.
Production for the reboot is expected to begin in late 2025, with additional casting announcements anticipated in the coming months. While Styles’ involvement remains unconfirmed, his fans and Doctor Who enthusiasts are eagerly waiting to see if the rumours turn out to be true.
Harry Styles’ signature fashion sense has fans wondering how he’d bring his unique style to the TARDISGetty Images
In the meantime, Styles is reportedly working on his fourth studio album, making this an exciting period for the multi-talented performer. Whether or not he takes on the role of the Doctor, his next move is sure to make headlines.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.