August 1, 2015 - 13:08 AMT
Doctor Who features Game of Thrones star in significant role

Maisie Williams, best known as Arya Stark on HBO’s Game of Thrones, will play a brand-new character in Doctor Who, and not someone from the Doctor’s past, the Associated Press reports.

“Once you see what she’s up to ... you’ll appreciate what a clever idea it was. It’s a significant role. We’re not just getting star value and throwing it away. It’s a great part, and she’s terrific in it,” show runner Steven Moffat said Friday, July 31.

“If people are hugely associated with a much-loved show, then it’s good to have them on your show. The audience is clever. They know you’re playing somebody else. They don’t get confused,” he said.

Moffat also teased that “it will take you a moment or two to realize what we’re up to” with Williams’ character.

Season nine of Doctor Who, which stars Peter Capaldi as the Doctor and Jenna Coleman as his companion, Clara, premieres Sept 19 on BBC America.