Rory Kinnear

Rory Kinnear

Rory Kinnear has emerged as the favourite to play the new Time Lord in 'Doctor Who'.

The 35-year-old star is being tipped to replace Matt Smith in the role after the current Doctor revealed he is to hang up his Sonic Screwdriver after this year's 50th anniversary episode and Christmas special.

The 'Vexed' actor is thought to be an ideal choice because he is experienced yet isn't a household name so he has not been typecast in specific roles.

A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "Rory has all the ¬credibility and is known in the industry as a very talented actor, but he isn't as instantly ¬recognisable as some of the other candidates.

"Playing Doctor Who is a big deal and there are some big names being talked about, but producers worry about bringing in a well-known star because viewers may struggle to see past their previous roles.

"Matt Smith proved that choosing a lesser-known talent can really work, and he's been a big hit with viewers. It's essential to get this decision right for the future of the series."

Rory is 3/1 favourite for the role with Ladbrokes, while 'Skyfall' star Ben Whishaw - who is thought to be too high profile for the part - is priced at 5/1, and Benedict Cumberbatch, who is said to have ruled himself out, is 6/1.

Several female stars including Dame Helen Mirren and Miranda Hart have also been linked with the role, but BBC bosses seem unlikely to cast the first ever female Doctor because parents would have to explain to children why the Time Lord has undergone a sex change.

Former 'Doctor Who' boss Russell T. Davies told the Daily Star newspaper: "While I think kids will not have a problem with a female Doctor, I think fathers will have a problem with it.

"That's because they will then imagine they will have to describe sex changes to their children."

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