The 38-year-old, who will appear as Dr Who for the last time tomorrow, appeared in the two-part Doctor Who: The End of Time, was broadcast as Hamlet, presented quiz shows, hosted radio programmes and was even seen on BBC adverts riding a sleigh led by reindeer.

He also featured as a guest on Desert Island Discs and will read stories for a children’s programme until January 3.

He starred in BBC Three behind-the-scenes show Doctor Who Confidential and animated adventure Dreamland, and appeared as himself in shows including Blue Peter, Never Mind The Buzzcocks, QI and on CBeebies.

The BBC said: “These appearances were spread over several weeks and channels. We would not expect any one audience to see more than a handful.”