Doctor Who boss Stephen Moffat has hinted that John Simm could reprise his role as The Master in a future episode of the hit sci-fi drama.
The head writer and showrunner discussed the future of the character at a recent screening of the show in New York, reports Digital Spy.
Simm had apparently told Moffat that the departure of tenth Doctor David Tennant would signal the end of his association with the programme.
However, Moffat added: “He [later] pulled me aside and said, ‘I didn’t mean that! Look at me, I’m fit, I’m okay!'”
The showrunner has also denied reports that Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch could be set to take on the role, commenting: “Benedict has to wait in line, probably”.
Doctor Who returns to BBC One and BBC America on Easter Saturday, April 23.
Moffat recently likened the new series to a “ghost train” and has revealed one of the four main characters will die in the opening two-part episode.