Fan anticipation is already huge for Doctor Who's groundbreaking 11th series, and now we'll have even more to savour from a supersized opening adventure.

After Peter Capaldi hung up his keys to the big blue box in last year's Christmas special, Jodie Whittaker is taking over the reins as the first female version of the time-travelling troublemaker.

And to celebrate the beginning of a new era, the Beeb is apparently making the debut instalment of series 11 quite a bit longer than we'd expect.

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According to Radio Times, Whittaker's first episode to herself will run at 65 minutes instead of the usual 50.

Here's how a BBC Worldwide description describes the episode: "Already highly anticipated, Series 11 heralds a brand-new era for Doctor Who with a world-class team at the helm. Incoming lead writer Chris Chibnall has a fresh and inclusive vision for the series.

"Bigger and bolder than ever, this series marks the arrival of Jodie Whittaker, the 13th Doctor – a super-smart force of nature, alongside a team of new and delightful characters. The show will be full of action and adventure, humour and thrills. An unmissable high-end drama everyone will enjoy."

The series officially rebooted in 2005 with Christopher Eccleston playing the titular Doctor, and since then, David Tennant, Matt Smith and Capaldi have all had their time to shine.

When the show returns, Whittaker's thirteenth incarnation of the legendary Time Lord will be joined by a whole new cast of companions, comprising Bradley Walsh, Mandip Gill and Tosin Cole.

Chris Chibnall BBC

Fans already knew that Whittaker's premiere would clock in at over an hour, so you may be asking what an extra five minutes gets you. Well, in terms of Doctor Who's dramatic storytelling, there could be anything from a heartfelt goodbye to a shocking death, so keep 'em peeled.

Doctor Who series 11 will premiere in Autumn 2018 on BBC One and, although we don't have a specific date yet, you can already win tickets to see episode 1.

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