How did British tabloids The Sun and The Mail Online react to the news that Jodie Whittaker will be the first female Doctor Who? By running nude photos of the actress.

The tasteless move included an editorial from The Sun''s Adam Postans, who sniped: "It is frankly nauseating that the [BBC] should now get on their sci-fi high horse and gallop into Right-Onsville to plonk a woman sheriff in town."

Equal Representation for Actresses (E.R.A.) responded swiftly with a statement to the Guardian: "We are delighted by the casting of Jodie Whittaker as the 13th Doctor. However, we are surprised and disappointed by the Daily Mail and The Sun's reductive and irresponsible decision to run a story featuring pictures of Jodie in various nude scenes."

The nude photos in question are from Whittaker's previous films, including the 2006 Oscar-nominated movie "Venus."

Whittaker's casting, while causing the predictable internet meltdowns, was met with warm support from outgoing Doctor Peter Capaldi, who shared a statement saying, "Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker's work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm. She has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She's going to be a fantastic Doctor."

Colin Baker (who played the Doctor from 1984 to 1986), responded to the backlash over the long-running role finally being played by a woman. In a guest column for The Guardian, he wrote, "I have been shocked by the reaction of some people who would describe themselves as fans of the programme to the casting of a really good actress in the role. Some of them I know and am sad to see them vowing to 'never watch the programme again.'" He added, "Let's hope the disgruntled can be convinced in the end."

Whittaker will make her debut as the Doctor in the Christmas episode, which will be broadcast by BBC America on December 25.

[via Vanity Fair]