With Ashely Jensen leading the investigations, Shetland is commissioned for 2024 and 2025. 

Following its successful transition into a post-Jimmy Perez era, after Douglas Henshall left the show, the BBC’s Scottish Isles drama now has its future assured.

The BBC have commissioned both Series 9 and 10 of the detective drama Shetland, which is based on the work of novelist Ann Cleeves.

Investigations are now led by Ashley Jensen as Detective Inspector Ruth Calder, ably assisted by Alison O’Donnell’s Detective Sergeant Alison ‘Tosh’ McIntosh. Regulars Steven Robertson (Sandy), Lewis Howden (Billy) and Anne Kidd (Cora) also return for Series 9.

Ashley Jensen says:

“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 breath-taking – 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.”

Alison O’Donnell adds:

“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 8 and I am delighted that we now have the opportunity to build on that. I can’t wait to see what Paul and the team have in store for us next.”

The new series of Shetland comes from lead writer Paul Logue, and Denise Paul. Series 9’s producer is Louise V Say, the directors are Andrew Cumming and Ruth Paxton. Executive producers are Gaynor Holmes for the BBC, Kate Bartlett, Denise Paul and Paul Logue for Silverprint Pictures.

Shetland resumes filming this month and all eight previous series are available via BBC iPlayer.