The War Between The Land And The Sea: Everything we know about Doctor Who spin-off

Published on August 2, 2024
Written by:
Isha Das
Isha Das
Streaming Staff Writer
Russell Tovey (Image: Jason Gimmick), Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Image: Michael Wharley), Jemma Redgrave (Image: Charlie Carter) and Alexander Devrient (Image: Marina Castells)

Following the success of previous Doctor Who spin-offs, the latest addition, The War Between the Land and the Sea, was officially announced at Comic-Con. This five-part miniseries focuses on UNIT, the government organization that steps in to handle a global crisis without the Doctor. 

While some details have been revealed, many aspects of the show remain under wraps. But don’t worry—we’ll update this article with new information as soon as it's announced. Here’s everything we know so far about this exciting new series: release details, cast members, plot, BTS, and more.

Release Date & Where to Watch

We don’t have a specific premiere date yet, but we do know that the series will consist of five episodes and will be available exclusively on Disney+, where accessible, and on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK. 

Plot 

The War Between the Land and the Sea kicks off with a dramatic global crisis as an ancient species emerges from the ocean. As the world faces chaos, UNIT steps in to manage the escalating conflict between the land and sea. Russell Tovey and Gugu Mbatha-Raw join the cast in new roles, and the series marks the return of the Sea Devils, classic villains from the 1972 "Doctor Who" series.

Created by Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies and Pete McTighe, this spinoff promises intense drama and a thrilling showdown. Davies described it as a “muscular, thrilling drama” that will shake The Whoniverse. At the San Diego Comic Convention, Davies praised the cast and hinted at major upheaval when the Doctor isn’t around. Russell Tovey, who previously played Alonso Frame, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw, who was Tish Jones, will take on new roles in the series.

Cast

Where is The War Between The Land And The Sea Filmed?

The production will take place in Wales, potentially showcasing the countryside as a key battleground. Filming for the spinoff is set to begin sometime in August 2024.

How does The War Between The Land And The Sea Connect to Doctor Who?

While the exact connection is unclear, “The War Between the Land and the Sea” ties into “Doctor Who” through the Sea Devils, who first appeared in 1972. These classic villains, who battled the Doctor then and resurfaced in 2022’s “Legend of the Sea Devils,” will be central to the spinoff. The new series is expected to be set in the modern day, distinct from past episodes.

Behind the Scenes

Davies, the showrunner and executive producer of Doctor Who, created The War Between the Land and the Sea alongside Pete McTighe (A Discovery of Witches, The Pact, Doctor Who). It is directed by Dylan Holmes-Williams, who directed two season one episodes: 73 Yards and Dot and Bubble. 



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