Doctor Who star Jemma Redgrave shuts down theories about Kate’s sexuality: “That’s never been a discussion”

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The recent audio drama, ‘The War Between the Land and the Sea,’ reveals more about Kate Lethbridge-Stewart (played by Jemma Redgrave) – the iconic character from Doctor Who – and confirms her romantic relationship with Colonel Christofer Ibrahim (Alexander Devrient), offering a look beyond her duties at UNIT.

This is the first time we’re seeing Kate in a relationship, though people have wondered about her romantic life for years.

Redgrave recently clarified that, although she previously wondered if Kate might have been married to a woman before the show, she’s never talked to the showrunner, Russell T Davies, or anyone else involved with the series about Kate’s sexuality.

I discovered a lot about her in a previous episode, ‘Death in Heaven,’ even from just a few details. She showed up to work still wearing gardening clothes, having just come from her garden or allotment, and wasn’t prepared for the call. She briefly described herself as a mother, divorced, a parent of two children, and a very skilled bridge player.

I was aware she was divorced, and I wondered if she might be in a same-sex relationship. However, these were just my own thoughts – I didn’t discuss them with anyone. I was simply considering what was happening in her life at the time.

Redgrave and Devrient recently shared that the romantic connection between Kate and Colonel Ibrahim has been confirmed.

We talked about the stark contrast in how the two characters viewed the situation, which was really compelling. This difference in perspective is clear throughout the script and episodes written by Pete McTighe and Russell T Davies, especially regarding their feelings about the relationship and what the future holds for each of them.

Devrient also explained that they included small clues throughout the seasons of Doctor Who. Honestly, she and Jemma weren’t sure if those clues would lead anywhere. At first, they were hesitant to reveal too much.

Working within UNIT involves a clear hierarchy, which is a significant factor here. The age difference between the individuals is also important. These, along with other issues, make this a potentially difficult and dangerous relationship.

Ultimately, Russell’s writing really inspired us to embrace the connection between these two characters. There’s a genuine purity and beauty in their stoicism, respect, and loyalty – a bond they can’t deny. We decided to explore what that looks like when everything is falling apart around them, even amidst another disaster.

The War Between the Land and the Sea continues on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on 14th December.

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2025-12-09 14:07