As we reported earlier this week, BBC America and BBC announced who is replacing Matt Smith as the new Time Lord in Doctor Who today, with Peter Capaldi taking over as the 12th Doctor. Take a look at the official press release for more details.

Amid much hype and speculation, Peter Capaldi was unveiled as the next Doctor Who during a special live television event on BBC One tonight.

Widely regarded as one of the biggest roles in British television, Capaldi will be the Twelfth Doctor and takes over from Matt Smith who leaves the show at Christmas.

Here's what Peter Capaldi had to say about taking on the role.

"Being asked to play The Doctor is an amazing privilege. Like the Doctor himself I find myself in a state of utter terror and delight. I can't wait to get started."

Executive producer and head writer Steven Moffat had this to say in his own statement.

"It's an incendiary combination: one of the most talented actors of his generation is about to play best part on television. Peter Capaldi is in the TARDIS!"

Doctor Who companion, Jenna-Louise Coleman also released the following statement.

"I'm so excited Peter Capaldi is the man taking on the challenge of becoming the Twelfth Doctor. With Steven's writing and his talent I know we'll be making an amazing show with an incredible incarnation of number 12. I can't wait to start this new adventure!"

Charlotte Moore, Controller BBC One, had this to say.

"Peter Capaldi has all the genius and versatility needed to take on the mantel of the great Time Lord and make the role his own. He'll bring his own particular wisdom, charisma and wit to the Twelfth Doctor and take the show into an exciting new era."

Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning also chimed in with a statement.

"We started thinking Peter Capaldi might be the right person to take on this iconic part a few months ago. But it was only when he did a secret audition at Steven's house under the cover of darkness that we knew we had our man. He's an extraordinarily talented actor who can seemingly turn his hand to anything. We can't wait to premiere his unique take on the Doctor on Christmas Day and we are sure he's going to become one of the all-time classic Doctors."

Doctor Who is produced by BBC Cymru Wales.