The Sunday Mirror claim Michelle Ryan is in "secret talks" to become the new companion on Doctor Who next year. A source said: "Michelle's been in secret talks with BBC bosses. They are likely to announce her as Doctor Who's new assistant very soon. She is perfect for the role. She is good-looking and the right age to star alongside Matt. Everyone agrees they look great together and reckon fans will think they're the perfect team too."
I certainly hope this is true, as I've had a soft spot for Michelle since her days on EastEnders. It would make sense, too, given Steven Moffat's gracious comments about Michelle while publicizing his mini-series Jekyll (which she co-starred in as James Nesbitt's assistant.)
So, would Michelle Ryan meet with your approval? I've put together a little poll of contenders that will run for a week (in the sidebar). You can vote for: Carey Mulligan (Sally Sparrow in nu-Who's "Blink"), Daniela Denby-Ashe (My Family, Torchwood), Jaime Winstone (Donkey Punch, Dead Set), Joanna Page (Gavin & Stacey), Katherine Parkinson (The IT Crowd, Doc Marten) and Michelle Ryan (Bionic Woman, Merlin).
I'll update this post with the results next Sunday. Of course, if you'd like to champion someone I've failed to mention, please feel free to comment here.