Ncuti Gatwa Went From Being Homeless To Becoming Historic 14th Doctor Who

Ncuti Gatwa went from being homeless to playing the role of the historic 14th Doctor Who.

The 29-year-old will replace Jodie Whittaker who has starred in the role for the past five years.

For those unaware, Gatwa is perhaps best known for his role as Eric Effiong in the Netflix show Sex Education.

Well, back in 2020, the actor told The Big Issue that after moving to London, 'for five months' prior to featuring on the Netflix show, he 'didn't have a home' and was 'couch-surfing'.

He explained: "I am from Scotland and moved down to London when I was 21. I was working constantly - and at some good places. 

"I spent a year at the Globe Theatre, I did a lot of work at Kneehigh, who are a physical theatre company.

"But you have to feed yourself, you have to get to work, with rent, bills, travel, days off from temping to go to an audition. I couldn't seem to handle it all financially."

He added: "I was supposed to move into a new place and it fell through. So for five months before Sex Education, I was couch-surfing among all my friends. I didn't have a home. I was homeless.

"The only thing stopping me from being on the streets was the fact I had friends. But you can use up that goodwill. Or you feel scared to ask people for help. Your pride kicks in."

He went on to say: "I was thinking it was so mad, because if someone was to see me on the street - on my way to temping at Harrods in my trench coat and brogues, because you have to be so well-polished and look the part - they would never believe I was about to spend two hours on the phone to people trying to find where I could sleep that night.

"I couldn't believe I was homeless and working in Harrods. How many people must be going through this in London?"

After turning his life around, he has now bagged himself one of the biggest jobs in British television.

Reflecting on his upcoming role, Gatwa stated: "There aren’t quite the words to describe how I’m feeling. A mix of deeply honoured, beyond excited and of course a little bit scared.

"This role and show means so much to so many around the world, including myself, and each one of my incredibly talented predecessors has handled that unique responsibility and privilege with the utmost care.

"I will endeavour my upmost to do the same."

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