Entertainment / Not one but two new series of Shetland to come

THE BBC has announced that it has recommissioned crime drama Shetland for two new series.

Filming will take place for series nine and ten in Shetland and across Scotland in 2024 and 2025.

Filming on series nine begins this month with Ashley Jensen and Alison O’Donnell reprising their roles as Detectives Ruth Calder and Alison ‘Tosh’ McIntosh.

Series eight averaged seven million viewers across its run last year.

Originally based on award-winning novels by crime writer Ann Cleeves, the new series of Shetland will also see the return of series regulars Steven Robertson (Sandy), Lewis Howden (Billy) and Anne Kidd (Cora).

Further casting will be announced in due course. Paul Logue will be lead writer, supported by Denise Paul.

Jensen said: “I’m thrilled I’ll be returning to the Shetland Isles again to play the wonderfully complex DI Ruth Calder.

“The reaction to the last series was incredible and I’m excited at the prospect of unravelling more intrigue. The Shetland Isles are breathtaking – without a doubt one of the most memorable and unique filming locations I’ve been to.

“I’m looking forward to jumping on that wee plane again and returning soon.”

O’Donnell added: “I could not be happier that Shetland is returning for two more series and am so excited to get started.

“I’m really proud of the journey this show has been on and of the way it continues to evolve and grow in exciting and surprising ways.

“That we have managed to grow such a loyal and supportive viewership is a dream come true. Ashley and I just scratched the surface of our dynamic in series eight and I am delighted that we now have the opportunity to build on that.

“I can’t wait to see what Paul [Logue] and the team have in store for us next.”

Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, commented: “It’s a joy to bring Shetland back for not one, but two new series, further strengthening the BBC’s commitment to this hugely successful Scottish drama that’s loved by fans across the UK and around the world.

“Ashley and Alison’s partnership has taken Shetland from strength to strength and into new exciting territory, which combined with Paul Logue’s captivating scripts will mean there’s plenty more in store as we head back to the Isles.”

Silverprint Pictures’ executive producer Kate Bartlett said it was “wonderful to be making these series with such incredible Scottish talent in all areas of our production”.