Matt Smith will take over the role in 2010

The BBC has named its new "Doctor Who," and the choice has a fair number of people saying, Who?

Matt Smith will be the 11th actor to play the iconic sci-fi character -- and the third since the series relaunched in 2005, following Christopher Eccleston and current star David Tennant. The 26-year-old is a relative newcomer to show business and will be the youngest actor ever to play the role.

"I feel proud and honored to have been given this opportunity to join a team of people that has worked so tirelessly to make the show so thrilling," Smith tells the BBC. "David Tennant has made the role his own, brilliantly, with grace, talent and persistent dedication. I hope to learn from the standards set by him."

Tennant, who's played the Time Lord since 2005, will step away from the role after filming a series of specials slated to air this year. Smith will begin filming this summer for episodes scheduled to debut in 2010.

Word of Smith's casting leaked out on Saturday; the official announcement came on the BBC One show "Doctor Who Confidential" Saturday night.

"Doctor Who" is also ushering in a new creative team for the 2010 season. Steven Moffat ("Coupling," "Jekyll") is taking over as executive producer from the departing Russell Davies.

Smith's previous credits include the BBC Two series "Party Animals," the telefilms "The Ruby in the Smoke" and "The Shadow in the North" and a guest spot on "Secret Diary of a Call Girl."