The executive producers of AMC’s The Walking Dead have always been a bit cagey about if and when they would be including the comic series character known as “The Governor.” Today, however, AMC announced that The Governor will be a part of season 3, and the person to play him will be brilliant British actor David Morrissey, best known to Doctor Who fans as the guest star of the Christmas special “The Next Doctor.” Here are the details:

AMC announced today that David Morrissey has been cast in the role of The Governor in the networks’ critically acclaimed hit series, “The Walking Dead.”  The Governor, a character from Robert Kirkman‘s graphic novel, is the leader of Woodbury, a small settlement of survivors, and becomes the chief antagonist for Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) and his group.

The Governor will appear in “The Walking Dead” season three, a 16-episode order from AMC, which begins production this spring in Atlanta.

A BAFTA Award nominee, Morrissey has appeared in many acclaimed British series including “State of Play,” “Meadowlands,” “The Deal” and “Blackpool.” Along with his celebrated work in television, Morrissey is also known for his leading roles in feature films such as The Reaping, The Other Boleyn Girl, Centurion, The Water Horse, Nowhere Boy and Blitz. He recently wrapped Welcome to the Punch opposite James McAvoy and Mark Strong. Morrissey is represented by The Collective and Troika in the UK.

The Walking Dead Season Two airs Sundays at 9/8c on AMC.