Ashley Jensen, the talented Scottish actress known for her memorable roles in Extras and Ugly Betty, is returning to the BBC crime drama Shetland. Fans can look forward to seeing her reprise her role as DI Ruth Calder in the upcoming tenth series, with filming beginning in April 2025. Jensen’s return promises to bring fresh energy and depth to this popular show set against the striking backdrop of the Shetland Isles.
A New Mystery in the Shetland Isles
The tenth series of Shetland centres around a chilling case that begins with the suspicious death of a retired social worker in the quiet, remote village of Lunniswick. DI Ruth Calder teams up once again with DI Alison “Tosh” MacIntosh, played by Alison O’Donnell, to unravel the mystery. Their investigation soon uncovers dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of this small, close-knit community.
The series is set to feature six gripping episodes, filmed on location across Scotland and the Shetland Isles. This real-world setting adds authenticity and atmosphere to the story, making the landscape almost a character in its own right. The rugged, windswept scenery has long been a hallmark of the series and plays a crucial role in shaping the tone and mood.
New Faces Join the Cast
The tenth series introduces several notable new cast members alongside Ashley Jensen and Alison O’Donnell. These include Clive Russell, known for his role in The Witcher; Niall MacGregor from Line of Duty; Greg McHugh of The A Word; and Louise Brealey, famous for Clique. Samuel Anderson, best known for Gavin & Stacey, joins the cast as the new Procurator Fiscal Matt Blake. The blend of established stars and fresh talent ensures the series remains engaging and dynamic.
Ashley Jensen’s Career and Future Plans
Ashley Jensen has enjoyed a varied career spanning comedy and drama. While her role in Shetland has shown her dramatic range, Jensen recently spoke about her desire to return to comedy. She credits her work in Extras, Ugly Betty, and After Life for shaping her as an actress and wishes to reconnect with the lighter, funnier side of her craft. This mix of drama and comedy highlights Jensen’s versatility and why she continues to captivate audiences.
Her character, DI Ruth Calder, has evolved significantly through the series. From her first appearance, Calder has faced both professional challenges and personal struggles, which Jensen portrays with nuance. This character depth makes Shetland more than just a crime procedural; it becomes a story about human relationships and resilience in a harsh environment.
What to Expect from Series 10
The upcoming series promises suspense, strong characters, and stunning locations—elements fans know well from previous seasons. The dark secrets of Lunniswick will challenge Calder and Tosh like never before. The supporting cast also brings fresh energy and new layers of complexity to the story. The six-part series will explore themes of trust, betrayal, and community, wrapped in the distinctive atmosphere of the Shetland Isles.
Filming on location will bring viewers stunning visuals of Scotland’s rugged north, reinforcing the show’s unique identity. The mix of familiar faces and new characters ensures the storyline remains fresh and unpredictable.
Conclusion
Ashley Jensen return to Shetland marks an exciting development for the series and fans of British crime drama. Her portrayal of DI Ruth Calder continues to add emotional depth and strength to the show’s compelling mysteries. With new cast members joining the production and a gripping storyline set in the hauntingly beautiful Shetland Isles, Series 10 is shaping up to be a must-watch.
Shetland remains a standout for viewers who enjoy well-crafted crime dramas with strong characters and breathtaking scenery. As the tenth series prepares to air later this year, audiences can look forward to a season filled with suspense, intrigue, and heartfelt performances. Ashley Jensen’s blend of dramatic intensity and plans to revisit comedy make her career one to watch.
The return of Shetland with Ashley Jensen is a promising reminder of why this show continues to captivate viewers and why its mix of mystery and character-driven storytelling feels fresh, even after a decade.
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