Shetland’s Ashley Jensen wants to return to comedy next – to find her ‘inner clown’ again

Shetland’s Ashley Jensen wants to return to comedy next – to find her ‘inner clown’ again

As a long-time admirer of Ashley Jensen’s versatile acting prowess, I find myself eagerly awaiting her next move. Her decision to return to comedy after a successful stint on Shetland is not only exciting but also intriguing.


Ashley Jensen has revealed an intention to return to comedy after starring in BBC One’s Shetland.

The Scottish thespian portrays Detective Inspector Ruth Calder in the extended detective show. Previously serving with the Metropolitan Police, she assumes the role vacated by Jimmy Perez, played by Douglas Henshall, who departs the isles to embark on a fresh adventure.

Last year, her introduction was warmly received by viewers, and she’s set to reprise her role in a new season of the drama in early next month. However, Jensen hinted that she might seek out a lighter project for her next venture.

She mentioned that since the viewership for her first season was high, they ordered two more series, seasons 9 and 10, which gave her a great sense of confidence, as she shared this in the most recent edition of TopMob magazine.

“But I’ll probably want to do some comedy next, just to find my clown again.”

In simpler terms, Jensen shared that she finds it fulfilling to play dramatic parts, but it’s her humorous roles that she believes helped establish her as a recognized performer.

She continued: “I’m known predominantly for comedy – Extras, Ugly Betty, Nativity and After Life put me on the map – but I always enjoy serious drama like Mayflies. The Shetland call came out of the blue and it was a no-brainer for me.

Even though some devoted DI Perez fans, portrayed by Douglas Henshall, may remain, I myself joined the series only recently. I hadn’t seen it before I became a part of it.

In the ninth season of Shetland, Ruth finds herself comfortably adjusted to her fresh start, but the peace is disrupted as a friend of her colleague, Detective Sergeant Alison ‘Tosh’ McIntosh, mysteriously vanishes.

“The storyline hints at: ‘Tosh and Calder become embroiled in a complex mystery involving vanished individuals and fatalities, which blurs the boundary between their private lives and their work.’

Check out more from Ashley Jensen and other TV stars in this week’s issue of TopMob.

Shetland’s Ashley Jensen wants to return to comedy next – to find her ‘inner clown’ again

Shetland returns to BBC One and iPlayer on Wednesday 6th November 2024.

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2024-10-29 00:33