Doctor Whoshowrunner: 'There has been no backlash' to first female Doctor

Plus: Pearl Mackie will return for Christmas special

For all things Comic-Con 2017, visit our all-encompassingEW Comic-Conpage.

And as far as showrunner Steven Moffat is concerned, reports of angry fans have been greatly exaggerated.

There has been no backlash at all, Moffat insisted at San Diego Comic-Con on Sunday.

I think Jodies going to be amazing, said Capaldi.

She really loves the show.

And shes a brilliant actress.

But before Whittaker takes over the TARDIS, theres still the matter of that Christmas special.

A teaser for the episode, which debuted during the panel, left fans with plenty to analyze.

(For instance: Why does Gatiss character looks so much like a certain beloved Brigadier?)

Then again, she added, itsDoctor Who,so never say never.

The Christmas special will find Capaldis Doctor teaming up with the First Doctor, played here by David Bradley.

Its a lovely way out, Gatiss said.

Its a very Christmas-y episode without being on-the-nose Christmas-y.

I never had a standing ovation before, Capaldi marveled.

Capaldi did, indeed, stand, going down the line to compliment his costars.

He even spared some praise for his own Doctor: I love him.

Hes my favorite Doctor.

Hes certainly the most handsome… and hes got the biggest hair.

Time ran away with me, said the actor of his three years leadingDoctor Who.

I dont know how we got here so quickly.

If only he had a TARDIS.