Doctor Who to… Queen Victoria: the casting NO ONE saw coming

She's the gorgeous 29-year-old actress who earlier this year caught the eye of none-other than Prince Harry.

And while fans had hoped that Jenna Coleman would be playing Doctor Who's Clara Oswald for some time to come, she sensationally announced this morning that she's quit the gig.

Up next? The role of none-other than… Queen Victoria, a formidable historical character better known for her aloof nature, permanent state of mourning, and – it has to be said – her rather large waistline. 

But petite Ms Coleman evidently couldn't be happier. 

She told BBC One's breakfast show that she now has "four weeks to become the Queen".

She added: "I need to learn to ride a horse, to waltz, play Beethoven."

The forthcoming eight-part period drama follows the early life of Victoria, from her ascension to the throne at the age of 18, through to her courtship and marriage to Price Albert. It is costing ITV some €13.5m to put together. 

Jenna has been an on-screen companion to both Matt Smith and Peter Capaldi in her three years with the Doctor – the longest-serving assistant since the series was rebooted in 2005.

A source told The Mirror today: "Jenna clinched the role of Victoria a while ago but it’s been a very closely guarded secret.

"There is a lot of excitement about this series, which has Sunday night written all over it.

"ITV hope the eight-part epic will give them a ratings hit like Downton Abbey."