Key Highlights
- Ashley Jensen returns as DI Ruth Calder in the 10th series of “Shetland.”
- The new episode will air next Wednesday with a murder mystery set in Lunniswick.
- Alison O’Donnell joins as DI Alison “Tosh” McIntosh, bringing a fresh dynamic to the duo.
- Actors appreciate the unique setting and the close-knit community atmosphere of Shetland.
The Return of DI Ruth Calder
Ashley Jensen reprises her role as DI Ruth Calder in “Shetland,” a beloved British television series that has captivated audiences for years. The 10th installment is set to air next Wednesday, promising another thrilling mystery. Jensen’s character will once again work alongside the iconic DI Alison “Tosh” McIntosh, portrayed by Alison O’Donnell.
The New Cast and Dynamic
Alison O’Donnell joins the cast as the new detective, bringing a fresh perspective to the series. Her character, DI Alison “Tosh” McIntosh, will complement Jensen’s Detective Inspector Ruth Calder. The two have established a solid working relationship on screen, with a developing friendship off-screen that adds depth to their professional partnership.
The Setting and Storyline
This new series takes place in the fictional hamlet of Lunniswick, which is actually based on Levenwick, a real village near Lerwick. The landscape of Shetland serves as both a backdrop and integral part of the story, with its rugged beauty playing a significant role in the plot. Jensen mentions that the small community setting allows for personal lives to become entangled with the case, adding layers to the investigation.
One of the intriguing aspects of this series is the murder of an elderly woman outside her house, which has left the local community suspicious and intrigued. Jensen emphasizes that this storyline stands out as one of the best she has been involved in, praising the detailed writing and the complexity of the plot.
The Collaboration and Filming Experience
Both Jensen and O’Donnell highlight the unique filming experience on location in Shetland. They appreciate the real-life community feeling that adds authenticity to their performances. The pair also discuss how their down-to-earth nature and shared sense of humor contribute positively to their chemistry on screen.
Jensen, who has been involved in three series so far, is particularly excited about this new storyline.
She comments, “The murder itself is a peculiar death as the victim is an older woman and she’s positioned in a rather macabre way. What makes it worse is she’s outside her house, exposed to the elements and she’s been out there for a few days.” This complex case promises to keep both viewers and actors on the edge of their seats.
The actors believe that Shetland’s unique landscape and well-developed fictional world are crucial factors in its enduring appeal. Jensen notes, “This series we’ve kind of become a little more insular rather than the expansive locations of last year.
We’ve really come into the nucleus of the small hamlet of Lunniswick and used a real-life town as our location.” This choice highlights how the show uses its setting to enhance both the story and the characters.
The 10th series of “Shetland” is set to deliver another engaging mystery that fans will not want to miss. With the return of Ashley Jensen, the introduction of Alison O’Donnell, and a compelling storyline, audiences are in for an exciting ride as they unravel the secrets hidden within the Shetland community.
