AceShowbiz -

As soon as BBC announced Jodie Whittaker as the 13th Doctor of "Doctor Who" over the weekend, some fans were outraged and blasted the decision of casting a woman for the role of Time Lord. The network heard the complaints and issued an official response to the criticism.

"Since the first Doctor regenerated back in 1966, the concept of the Doctor as a constantly evolving being has been central to the programme. The continual input of fresh ideas and new voices across the cast and the writing and production teams has been key to the longevity of the series," the network explained on its official website.

BBC also pointed out that the Doctor was "an alien from the planet Gallifrey," before adding, "It has been established in the show that Time Lords can switch gender." The network further explained that the casting choice had nothing to do with political correctness, saying that Jodie was cast solely due to her brilliant acting.

"As the Controller of BBC Drama has said, Jodie is not just a talented actor but she has a bold and brilliant vision for her Doctor," the statement read. "She aced it in her audition both technically and with the powerful female life force she brings to the role. She is destined to be an utterly iconic Doctor." BBC concluded, "We hope viewers will enjoy what we have in store for the continuation of the story."

Fans previously were outraged upon learning that the upcoming season 11 would have a Time Lady instead of Time Lord. Some snarked that the show was "murdered by the PC brigade," while some threatened to leave the fandom. However, other fans and even several former Doctor depicters quickly jumped to Jodie's defense.