There have been tons of rumors about Matt Smith leaving the role of the Doctor, that ageless, mercurial time traveler, on Doctor Who at the end of this year. In the 50th anniversary special, or the Christmas special after that. But now it's official: He's on board for season eight.


In the latest issue of the British magazine Radio Times, Matt Smith confirms that he'll stick around next year — although it's not 100 percent clear that he'll be there for all of the eighth season, but it seems likely. So those of us who want to see Smith continue to find new dark folds and permutations in his giddy portrayal of the Time Lord can relax, and rejoice. [Life Doctor Who and Combom]