The actor, who begins filming in August, will play Professor John Gaskell, a surgical star with irrepressible charm.
As Holby struggles under a crisis, Gaskell arrives as the saviour of the hour, armed with a programme of surgical innovations – taking the hospital into an exciting but unknown future.
In addition to his role as the eighth Doctor, McGann has also featured in Withnail And I, Luther, Jonathan Creek, and Alien 3. He reprised the role of the Doctor in a special 50th Anniversary mini-episode.
McGann said: “I’m really excited to be joining Holby. Professor John Gaskell is certainly going to be an interesting character and I can’t wait to get started on the wards.”
Oliver Kent, Head of Continuing Drama for BBC Scripted Studios, commented: “I am utterly thrilled that the brilliant Paul McGann has agreed to join the cast of Holby City as Professor John Gaskell.
“I’ve admired Paul’s work for many years on stage, screen and radio and it’s a dream come true that he is joining our company.
“In his hands, John Gaskell will be a mercurial force to be reckoned with and I can’t wait to see him locking horns with Jac, Hanssen, Griffin and the other Holby titans.”
