Nesbitt rules out 'Doctor Who' role

James Nesbitt has ruled out taking over the role of The Doctor from David Tennant.

The 43-year-old Cold Feet actor has been linked with the part following rumours that David Tennant will be leaving the cult BBC show.

Commenting on the speculation, Nesbitt told Teletext: "Definitely not. I couldn't follow Christopher Eccleston or David Tennant. I thought they were both brilliant."

The actor admitted his daughters, Peggy, 9, and Mary, 5, were big fans of the show.

"[Doctor Who isn't] something that I really grew up with, although my kids love it."

Scottish actor Robert Carlyle has also denied rumours that he is in line to replace Tennant.

Tennant will return to play the Doctor next month, but is expected to leave the role after three specials in 2009.

Nesbitt will next be seen as Pontius Pilate in the four-part BBC drama The Passion, which begins airing on March 16.

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