Doctor Who's resident Time Lord will return to season 9 with less of a scowl.

'Doctor Who' Season 9: Clara Almost Didn't Return; Steven Moffat Reveals Original Departure Plan

First introduced in season 8, the Twelfth Doctor (Peter Capaldi) had an ominous cloud over his head, occasionally causing viewers jump almost as much as the monsters themselves. As the BBC series gears up for season 9, Capaldi's character will gain a little skip in his step.

"We're not bringing him back exactly as we left him, at all, I think that was already evident at Christmas," Moffat said, according to Doctor Who Magazine (via CNet). "He's left some of the burden of being a superhero of the universe behind. So I'm pushing him -- I'm writing quite funny this year -- I'm pushing him the other way."

Twelve Is In Trouble In 'Doctor Who' Premiere, Can Clara Trust Missy's Help? New Set VIDEO

Clara (Jenna Louise Coleman) spent much of last season attempting to keep her travel buddy from being coaxed to the Dark Side, and it sounds like the companion will have a little less to worry about in season 9. Instead of wondering if the Doctor is a monster, Clara can focus on fighting the real baddies.

Find out more when Doctor Who returns to the BBC and BBC America this fall. Click the video below to see Clara and Missy (Michelle Gomez) filming for the first two episodes, "The Magician's Apprentice" and "The Witch's Familiar."

Tags: Doctor Who television BBC BBC America