Shetland’s Ashley Jensen said her arrival as new DI could have “gone one way or another”

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Stepping into an established show in its eighth season is challenging, especially when you’re replacing a popular lead actor. However, Ashley Jensen didn’t dwell on what the future held when she took over the role from Douglas Henshall on the BBC crime drama, Shetland.

Initially, I signed on to do a six-episode series with this character, and that was all I had committed to. So, when the first season was successful and we were renewed for two more, it was a great surprise – things could have easily gone the other way.

Jensen complimented how her character, DI Ruth Calder, was first presented, saying it was a crucial moment that could have either solidified or ruined the show ‘Shetland’.

What they did really well was stay true to the heart of the show. Calder’s main goal in the first season was simply to escape, and they portrayed that subtly. She didn’t arrive trying to immediately take charge – that would have felt unnatural and alienated the audience. Instead, they drew viewers in gradually, creating a bit of mystery and intrigue.

It really showcased everything and highlighted Alison O’Donnell, which is exactly what the audience wanted. They were eager to learn more about her character, Tosh.

O’Donnell, who plays Calder’s partner, DI “Tosh” McIntosh, echoed those comments.

She wondered if people were rooting for Perez and enjoying her experience, even if it seemed like she didn’t want to participate. It was a chance to follow her story and see how it unfolded, despite her reluctance.

They were very subtle and didn’t push her towards anything. Yet, through a clever maneuver, she managed to get involved. It was a really smart move.

Two years after Jensen first joined the force, Calder and Tosh continue to investigate crimes on the islands, and their latest case involves the murder of retired social worker Eadie Tulloch.

As a true crime and cinema devotee, I was immediately hooked by the details Detective Jensen shared. The victim was an elderly woman, and the way she was found… it was unsettling, almost staged. What really struck me, though, was that she was discovered outside, exposed to the weather, and had been there for days. It’s the kind of thing you see in thrillers, and the fact it’s happening in a close-knit town just adds to the tension – everyone’s looking at each other, wondering who could be responsible.

Jensen also described season 10 as “the best storyline out of the three I’ve been involved in”.

I really appreciate the intricate details and how everyone in town is a potential suspect. It’s also been compelling to watch the police officers’ personal lives get tangled up in the investigation, which has made the story especially engaging for the cast.

“There are relationships in the station which become fraught and fractious.”

The tenth season of Shetland premieres on Wednesdays on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. You can currently stream the first nine seasons on BBC iPlayer. If you enjoy the show, the original Shetland novels by Ann Cleeves are available for purchase.

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2025-11-27 15:34