First Look At Catherine Tate As New Companion

Love her or hate her. Either way, here comes Donna.

BBC has released the first publicity photo of David Tennant as The Doctor and Catherine Tate as his new full-time companion for the upcoming fourth season of "Doctor Who."

Filming has now begun on the show's next season, set to debut in early 2008 on BBC One and most likely a short time later on SciFi Channel in the United States.

Among the famous faces fans will see this season include The Ood from the show's second season as well as a run-in with murder mystery novelist Agatha Christie, played by Fenella Woolgar. Also taking on a guest star role will be Felicity Kendal, who will play Lady Clemency Eddison along with Tim McInnerny from "Black Adder" and "Notting Hill" fame.

"Visiting Agatha Christie has been on my wish list for ages now, and for The Doctor, it's a real meeting of the minds," executive producer Russell T. Davies said in a BBC release. "Viewers can expect many more ambitious storylines and a whole host of guest stars in 2008."

Even Christie's descendants are all for the author's inclusion, with her grandson saying that while Christie may have never seen the show, she would be "flattered by all this attention in 2007."

"I am delighted to be returning to 'Doctor Who,'" Tate said in a release. "I had a blast last Christmas, and look forward to traveling again through time and space with that nice man from Gallifrey."

As per previous reports, third season companion Freema Agyeman will return as Martha Jones at mid-season.

"Doctor Who" returns with its annual Christmas special on Dec. 25, with the fourth season following in Spring 2008. The third season featuring Tennant and Agyeman is currently airing on SciFi Channel in the United States.

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