The production of BBC's "Doctor Who" Series 8 started as early as Jan. 6 this year and is set for release sometime in summer or early fall, but several spoilers have already come out since then about what viewers can expect from this new season.

It was already confirmed that Season 8 will have a new actor playing the titular Doctor, and it will be none other than Peter Capaldi. His new companion, Clara Oswald, will be played by Jenna Coleman. Another important friendly character is Clara's fellow teacher at Coal Hill School, Danny Pink. Pink will be played by Samuel Anderson.

Season 8 Spoilers

It was divulged that recognizable characters will return in Season 8. Catrin Stewart, Neve McIntosh and Dan Starkey will play the roles of Jenny Flint, Madame Vastra and Strax, respectively. All will appear in at least the season's premiere episode, if not later ones as well. Additionally, actress Alex Kingston hinted that her character River Song, a fan favorite known previously for appearing as a mysterious future lover of the Doctor with secret connections to other characters, could make a comeback in Season 8.

Well-known writers, such as Mark Gatiss, Gareth Roberts and Neil Cross, were tapped for Series 8. Unconfirmed writers, who may join the season's roster of scriptwriters include Chris Chibnall, Neil Gaiman, Jack Lothian and Tom MacRae.

Ben Wheatley, Douglas Mackinnon and Paul Murphy have signed on to direct the forthcoming season. Each will be directing two episodes, but more directors will be added as Series 8 has a total of 13 episodes.

Lead writer and executive producer Steven Moffat has stated that he is looking for ways to "push him [the Doctor] further" in this new season, and take the character in new and interesting directions different from how he has been used in the previous seasons of the show.