BBC Worldwide Sets Focus on Doctor Who Licensing

LONDON, January 6: BBC
Worldwide has deemed Doctor Who
as one of its priority licensing brands for 2009 and beyond, and announced a
renewal and extension of its master toy license with Character Options.

The announcement comes a
day after BBC named Matt Smith as the new Doctor, set to fill David Tennant's
shoes with season five in 2010. Character Options, the master toy partner since
2005, will lead the development of new product featuring Smith. BBC Worldwide
will develop new style elements for licensees for season five, with products
expected to hit retail in summer 2010.

"We're thrilled about
the announcement of Matt Smith as the new Doctor, not least because of the
opportunities it gives our creative team and licensees," said Neil Ross
Russell, the managing director of BBC Worldwide Children's and Licensing.
"Doctor Who is a long-term
priority for us as a commercial business and with Matt on board, we will be
looking to develop a new style guide with fresh creative elements to inspire
our licensing partners."

Doctor Who merchandise slated for release this year includes
Time Squad collectible figures in the spring and repackaged and revamped
Cyberman 'Age of Steel' products.

—By Mansha Daswani