Doctor Who Series Finale 'The Name Of The Doctor' Leaked In US By BBC

American fans of the British sci-fi series Doctor Who were in for a bit of a surprise this week. They received their Series 7 Part Two boxsets. On first glance this may not appear unusual, however, coupled with the knowledge that Series 7 has yet to finish airing (and the hatred of the world at large for spoilers), this becomes quite a serious matter. With 'The Name of The Doctor' -an episode airing Saturday that showrunner Steven Moffat says will "change the course of Who forever"-set to air on Saturday, the idea of other people ruining the surprise due to a shipping error becomes very serious indeed.

"Production error in US means DW bluray shipped early. Let's hope no one spoils it for those who want to enjoy it together on Sat. Please RT," tweeted Doctor Who brand manager Edward Russell.

The Doctor Who Facebook page released the following statement:

"We understand that a small number of US fans have received in error their DVD edition of Series 7 Part 2 early. We respectfully ask those fans not to divulge information or post content publicly so that fellow fans who have yet to see the episodes do not have their viewing pleasure ruined. 

If everyone keeps the secrets safe until next Saturday we will release a special new clip featuring material of the Tenth AND Eleventh Doctor!"

Several responses to the release:

"I received it and at the end the Doctor changes into power rangers and fight a balrog."

"the 11th doctor dies and regenerates into nicolas cage."

The goings on of the episode are viewed as important not only because it is the season finale, but because The Doctor has never revealed his birth name. He goes by "The Doctor" and the typical response to this ("Doctor who?") is what lends the show its name.

The BBC have released a prequel to "The Name Of The Doctor." Check it out below:

The series 7 finale of Doctor Who airs Saturday.