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has received a staunch defence from former star over the backlash he and others have faced for their roles in the iconic series.

David, who played the 10th Doctor from 2005 to 2010 before making a comeback as the 14th Doctor in 2023, has not shied away from criticising those who lambast actors landing the coveted BBC role.

Every actor who has stepped into the Time Lord's shoes has been handed their share of scrutiny, with himself initially facing scepticism before his portrayal won hearts and became a definitive take on the character, reports .

However, with social media's pervasive reach, his successors have borne the brunt of more sustained disparagement.

David discussed his enduring legacy and dismissed speculation that he'd replace during an interview with The Guardian.

David was asked whether he feels a protective instinct towards the actors who succeeded him, especially Jodie Whittaker and .

He responded: "These debates - and it's not even a debate, it's a small clutch of people shouting very loudly, amplified by certain elements of the press - are not reflective of what most people feel. Things become ludicrously disproportionate, and end up being unnecessarily cruel."

This isn't the only time David has spoken about about crucial issues. David has vocally supported the trans community, taking a stand against recent campaigns of vitriol aimed at them.

He commented: "That's what the trans debate seems to have become. Most people don't give a s***. I genuinely believe most people just want to let people be themselves.

"All they're doing is making a tiny portion of society who have a really tough time anyway have an even tougher time."

His co-star Ncuti was set to be the UK's spokesperson for Eurovision but has now been replaced by Sophie Ellis-Bextor, after pulling out "due to unforeseen circumstances".

The finale in Basel is set for tonight (Saturday, May 17) and will broadcast on BBC One from 8pm.

Prior to that excitement, fans can catch the next instalment of Ncuti's second series playing Doctor Who, airing on the same network at 7pm.

Preceding this new season, Ncuti spoke to the Big Issue about how the show engages with contemporary societal issues.

He told the magazine: "Doctor Who works so well and has done for so many years because it is reflective of the problems we face in our time and potentially in our future.

"That's part of what attracted me to the show in the first place. Russell (series creator Russell T Davies) is very politically and socially aware and has always infused the scripts with that. It is the nature of the show to be a soundboard to life around us.

"Alongside the entertainment, we are tackling the big talking points in society. This show is a beacon of learning and exploration.

"I'm really happy and proud to be part of a show that talks about these big issues. And it is done with such compassion to all parties."