It sounds like a joke, but the BBC is really offering fans a chance to get some TARDIS time, as long as their cosplay skills are up to snuff. Where have you gone, quality control?

The fan cameo is being offered as a prize on Tonight's The Night, a wish-fulfillment show hosted by Torchwood's John Barrowman, according to Digital Spy:

Viewers over 18 are invited to submit an application featuring a photograph of them in their home-made alien costume, along with information about their alien, such as where it is from and its characteristics. A group of 50 applicants will then be selected to meet a panel including John Barrowman and Doctor Who casting director Andy Pyror.

The site says that the winner will get to perform a "specially-written scene" on the set of Doctor Who, but stops short of saying whether they'll actually be seen in a real Who episode or not. We're guessing not... but almost hope that we're wrong.

Flick image from Tonythesuperperson.

Fans offered alien role in 'Doctor Who' [Digital Spy]