A Southampton born actor is one of the favourites to take over as Doctor Who, as reports continue to speculate that Ncuti Gatwa could leave the role after just two years.

Josh O'Connor, who was born in the city, is best known for his role in Challengers, The Crown and God's Own Country.

Speculation has been rife that O'Connor could take over as the next James Bond, but now bookies believe he could add being the 16th Doctor to his illustrious list of gigs.

READ MORE: Southampton born actor is odds-on favourite to be next James Bond

According to data from betting platform OLBG, David Tennant is the current favourite to be the next Doctor at odds of 1/2.

Scottish-born Tennant could return for his third stint as the lead in the BBC show having played the 10th and 14th Doctor in 2005-2010 and 2022 respectively.

O'Connor is second favourite at odds of 2/1 while other contenders include Lydia West, Michael Sheen, and Olly Alexander.

The new series, set to start on April 12, could be Ncuti Gatwa's last.