Life on the remote Shetland Islands is about to take a twist in the upcoming eighth season of the hit BBC One detective drama, Shetland. This acclaimed series, based on Ann Cleeves’ award-winning crime novels, continues its gripping tales. However, seasoned viewers will notice one significant absence – leading man Douglas Henshall, who portrayed DI Jimmy Perez since the show’s inception, has officially bid farewell after the conclusion of Shetland’s seventh season. With a void to fill, what’s in store for the beloved crime series and who is in Shetland season 8 cast? Let’s dive into the details.
When is Shetland Season 8 coming out?
Fans can eagerly circle November 1, 2023, on their calendars as Shetland Season 8 is set to grace both BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The thrilling mysteries of the Shetland Islands will unravel before your eyes at 9 pm on Wednesday, November 1st, UK time, offering a compelling journey back to this captivating setting. Moreover, you can checkout BBC iPlayer pricing plans to subscribe to the platform. Furthermore, you also have the option to avail BBC iPlayer free trial along with the facility to cancel BBC iPlayer subscription at any time you want.
What to expect from Shetland Season 8?
As Shetland’s upcoming season unfurls, the absence of Jimmy Perez will be felt. This will open doors for Met Police Detective Inspector Ruth Calder’s entrance, returning to Shetland with a mission in hand. This twist of fate compels Tosh to temporarily halt her inquiry into a string of mysterious animal fatalities. Calder’s initial reservations about Shetland will put her at odds with Tosh, challenging her perception of her adopted home. Their partnership is put for a true test as they venture into the shadows of Shetland’s history and present. Expect a season brimming with enigmatic mysteries and intricate interpersonal dynamics. You can watch Shetland Series 8 in USA for FREE on BBC ONE, by following some very simple guidelines.
Who will lead Shetland’s detectives in season 8?
As season 7 of Shetland drew to a close, Jimmy Perez took a courageous step, risking his career to aid a man in escaping extradition to the U.S. and the looming death penalty. Even though the show underlined the righteousness of his actions, Perez had to resign from his job. In the end, he remarked, “If the last thing I do is help an innocent man, I’m good with that.” Perez found love, offering him a well-deserved happy ending despite the loss of his wife, Fran.
With Douglas Henshall‘s departure and season 8 of Shetland, the series was in need of a new lead detective. This is where Ashley Jensen, renowned for her roles in After Life, Agatha Raisin, and Ugly Betty, enters the picture. She will embody the character of DI Ruth Calder, a Shetland native returning home after two decades of service with London’s Metropolitan Police.
Ashley Jensen’s take on her new character
While expressing her excitement for the character, Ashley said:
“I am absolutely thrilled to be joining Shetland as DI Ruth Calder. It’s such a hugely successful show and I am aware I have very big boots to fill since the departure of DI Perez, who was very much loved by fans of the show.”
She continued:
“There will be a different dynamic with Ruth amongst the regular characters and a few more new interesting characters to enjoy. However the integrity of the show and the world that has been created will remain very much in the same tone as the last seven seasons.”
Who are the other cast members joining the team?
As Douglas Henshall departs from the show, you might wonder if other Shetland residents will stay in the picture. While we bid farewell to characters like Mark Bonnar’s Duncan Hunter and Anneika Rose’s public prosecutor, Maggie Kean, the core cast members are slated to make a comeback. This ensemble features:
Certainly, here’s the cast of Shetland Season 8 in a table format:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Alison O’Donnell | DS Alison ‘Tosh’ McIntosh |
| Steven Robertson | DC Sandy Wilson |
| Lewis Howden | Sgt Billy McCabe |
| Anne Kidd | Cora Mclean |
| Angus Miller | Donnie |
| Conor McCarry | PC Alex Grant |
| Eubha Akilade | PC Lorna Burns |
New guest stars joining Shetland Season 8!
The upcoming season of Shetland will feature a fresh line-up of guest stars joining the cast. These include:
- Phyllis Logan
- Jamie Sives
- Dawn Steele
- Don Gilet
- Ann Louise Ross
- Lorraine McIntosh
A sneak peak into Shetland Season 8 trailer!
Prepare for an enthralling murder mystery as DI Ruth Calder steps into the spotlight in the upcoming season of Shetland. The newly released trailer teases an intense and riveting experience that will have viewers on the edge of their seats. With a stellar cast returning, this engaging and suspenseful series will immerse the fans in a lot of intrigue!
In a nutshell!
As Shetland’s eighth season approaches, the absence of DI Jimmy Perez and the arrival of DI Ruth Calder bring an intriguing dynamic to the show’s narrative. With Douglas Henshall’s departure and Ashley Jensen taking the lead, viewers can expect a thrilling season filled with mysteries, suspense, and complex interactions. The talented Shetland season 8 cast, along with an array of new guest stars, promises an exciting and engaging journey for fans. Don’t miss the gripping stories and captivating performances that await in the picturesque but enigmatic landscapes of the Shetland Islands.
