Currently filming in Scotland, the new six-part series will see Douglas Henshall return to the lead role as Detective Jimmy Perez, following the success of Shetland’s two-part debut on BBC One earlier this year.

Based on the novels by writer Ann Cleeves, Series 2 will focus on three of the remaining stories from Ann’s Shetland Series – ‘Raven Black’, ‘Dead Water’ and ‘Blue Lightning’ – each forming two 60-minute episodes.

Cox will play Magnus Bain, a solitary man and social outsider who finds himself the focus of a murder investigation, while Graham will play procurator fiscal Rhona Kelly in the first and third of the three stories.

Graham commented: “Rhona is a woman who commands attention so it’s a joy to play such a strong female character. I loved the first series of Shetland and I’m delighted to be joining Dougie and the rest of the cast as a new returning character. It’ll also be lovely to be back filming in Scotland and visiting Shetland.”

Christopher Aird, Head of Drama for BBC Scotland and Executive Producer, added: “This first six-part series of Shetland will build on the huge success of the pilot. Douglas Henshall’s Perez is our charismatic guide to this unique world of compelling mysteries and fascinating character stories, all told under the brooding skies of the islands. We have some wonderful writers and directors working on the show and I am thrilled the likes of Brian Cox and Julie Graham will be joining the cast this year.”

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