John Simm might be a favourite among cult fans to take the lead role in Doctor Who.

But John's confirmed that he won't be entering the race to be the next Doctor.

And he's not the only actor who's happy to turn down the role.

John, who already has his place in the Whoniverse as evil Time Lord, The Master, told the Times: "I'm The Master. Simple as that. I don't want to be Doctor Who."

We have to admit, we liked the idea of John in the role, but we're pleased to hear him hint at a possible return to the show:

"I might be the Master again... I'm not allowed to say."

Meanwhile, Spooks actor Rupert Penry Jones, whose name has also been linked to the role, has also denied any involvement with the show.

Rupert told the Daily Mirror: "I haven't been asked to take over in Doctor Who.

"I took over from someone in Spooks, and I was never quite comfortable with that, so I wouldn't like to take over something else. I'd like to stick with original things."