Doctor Who Season 8 Update [RUMORS]: Who Are The Candidates For The Next Doctor So Far?

As "Doctor Who" gears up for the 50th Anniversary Special, fans aren't forgetting about the imminent exit of Matt Smith afterwards, and the fact that season 8 will present a new face to the franchise.

Since Smith's announcement, the list of names as potential candidates have grown exponentially. Here is a quick roundup of who has been rumored, wanted, and joked about regarding taking over the Doctor in season 8.

For one, big names like Ben Whishaw ("Cloud Atlas") and Rory Kinnear ("Skyfall") have been broached, with Kinnear being the most recent name.

However, it doesn't look too likely for Kinnear, who recently confessed to have never watched "Doctor Who" in his life.

"I don't where it came from and how these things evolve. I haven't been and I am totally certain that I will not be asked to be the next Doctor Who. If I was an actor who was really longing to play Doctor Who, then this would be torturous, but it's a program I've never watched, so I don't even really know what it is," states Kinnear according to The Guardian.

Others, however, are hopeful that season 8 will present the first black Doctor of the series.

Two names that have been prominent with the idea are Idris Elba ("Luther") and David Harewood ("Homeland").

"It's only rumors but it's amazing to be attached to such an iconic role," said Harewood according to Digital Spy.

"It would be extraordinary if the BBC were to make me the first black 'Doctor Who,' it would be extraordinary. But I'm almost scared to make any comment whatsoever."

But wait, what about rumors on a female Doctor?

For that, even more auspicious names have been dropped, including Helen Mirren and Olivia Colman ("Broadchurch").

"My brother sent me a text saying, 'Congratulations, they've released odds on you being the new Doctor Who,' which we thought was very funny," mused Colman according to The Huffington Post.

"No one's ever asked me about it. I assume they would have to ask me for it to be true."

So far, no cigar.

Truth be told, Steven Moffat will probably dangle the rumors and delay the official announcement as late as possible to keep the anticipation going until season 8 premieres next year.

Perhaps some big news will be made once the 50th Anniversary Special finally airs this November.