Russell T. Davies leaving 'Doctor Who'

LONDON, May 22 (UPI) -- Russell T. Davies is stepping down as executive producer of the beloved British fantasy series "Doctor Who," the BBC announced.

Writer Steven Moffat is to take over for Davies as lead writer and executive producer for the revived show's fifth season to be broadcast in 2010.

Moffat's small screen credits include "Coupling" and "Jekyll." He has also written some previous episodes of "Doctor Who."

"It's a huge honor to be following Russell into the best -- and the toughest -- job in television," Moffat said. "I say toughest 'cos Russell's at my window right now, pointing and laughing."

Davies is to remain at the helm for four "Doctor Who" specials to be shown next year.

"As lead writer and executive producer, he has overseen the creative direction and detail of the 21st century relaunch of 'Doctor Who' and we are delighted to have his continued presence on the specials over the next 18 months," BBC Fiction's Jane Tranter said.

The long-running series "Doctor Who" returned to British television in 2005 after a 16-year hiatus.