Doctor Who may have a new companion next season, but, placing all speculation aside, the Doctor/companion relationship will continue to build off Clara and Twelve's tumultuous season 8.

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It is still unknown whether or not Clara (Jenna Coleman) will continue to traverse time and space in season 9. Given the latest trailer for "The Las Christmas" (see video below), her death seems to be approaching at a rather rapid pace. In light of recent rumors, showrunner Steven Moffat has opened up about the season 9 Doctor/companion dynamic.

"Obviously [we plan on building on] Peter and Jenna. Well, if Jenna's in it..." Moffat teased SFX (via Doctor Who TV). "Just the depth of that companion relationship. We took the Doctor/companion relationship to a place that's just more real, much more damaging and with more consequences. And whoever the companion is, you want to continue that idea. It can be a thrilling, exciting relationship but actually it can be a dangerous one too. That felt quite powerful and potent."

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Eschewing the tropes of love and, to a certain extent, friendship, Twelve's season 8 history with Clara was rather volatile. Even if the companion does change, the Doctor won't, and viewers will need to brace themselves for more unexpected twists in the coming year.

Doctor Who will return to the BBC and BBC America on Dec. 25.

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Doctor Who, Television, BBC, BBC America