The latest issue of Doctor Who Magazine – no. 504, out now – reveals that showrunner Steven Moffat is a big fan of K9 and has considered bringing back the former companion.

K9 was a companion to the Fourth Doctor, first appearing in 1977, received his own special, K9 & Company, and then returned, briefly, in the 20th Anniversary Special, The Five Doctors, and then again in 2006’s School Reunion with the Tenth Doctor. After this, K9 made further appearances in another spin-off, The Sarah Jane Adventures, and then received his own series, the short-lived K9, in 2009.

In the regular Ask Steven Moffat page, one reader asks about a possible return for the lovable tin dog, to which the Scotsman replies:

“I think K9 is incredibly funny and I love him. I’ve considered bringing him back into Doctor Who many times, but it’s never quite worked out”.

My favourite version of it was in Last Christmas – there was a scene that I wrote and deleted because there wasn’t time – when Santa Claus was demonstrating the danger of the Dream Crabs by having them analysed by Rudolph’s nose and the Doctor says, “Can’t you see how stupid this is?”

At which point, K9 entered the room and said, “I could analyse that Master.” And he says, “Just go away. Go away. Leave me alone.” I never got to do it, but I’d love to have done it.

I love K9. K9 is awesome.’