Shetland season 7 concluded with DI Jimmy Perez’s departure. This could have easily ended this beloved detective series. The BBC believes in the series enough to renew it for a eighth season even though their lead has been absent for the past nine years.
We were also informed by the BBC about the renewal of Shetland season 7 before it began airing, so that we didn’t have to worry about what would happen to the show following Douglas Henshall’s departure.
What does this all mean for Shetland‘s future? What will happen to Jimmy? What about Henshall’s replacement?
We invite you to join us at Digital Spy where we will share all the details about Shetland episode eight on BBC.
Shetland season 8 release date: When will it air?
The BBC announced that filming for the new episodes of Shetland will begin in Spring 2023. This means that the show is most likely to return to our screens in the latter part of the year.
Shetland Season 8 Cast: Who will replace Douglas Henshall
Douglas Henshall made a statement about Jimmy’s unexpected departure when it was first reported. He said: “I’ll miss he and the place. I wish everyone involved all the best for whatever comes next.
Gaynor Holmes, executive producer for BBC Drama, stated that “we will miss him tremendously.” “But he is leaving the show in good health, and we are extremely excited about the plans that we have to bring more of this beloved drama to audiences all over the world.”
Henshall also spoke out with Radio Times. He said: “It will feel strange knowing that they’re filming an eighth series and that I’m not there. It will be a good show and I wish them all the best. They’ll have to create a new show.
The BBC confirmed today that a new lead would be hired , much like similar shows like The Bay. Who could it be?
Tosh, played brilliantly by Alison O’Donnell, is the obvious choice. Jimmy’s right-hand lady has been there from the beginning and it’s now that she can take over her mentor’s role.
Brian Ferguson plays DI Fraser Brooks. Although he’s not a familiar face in Shetland, his story could make sense.
Other suggestions such as Line of Duty’s Martin Compston are being promoted by fans. However, this is probably wishful thinking.
We know that Anneika Rose’s Maggie Kean and Mark Bonnar’s Duncan Hunter have both left the show. While the BBC has not confirmed who will be returning, these seem like a good bet:
- Steven Robertson is DC Sandy Wilson
- Lewis Howden is Sergeant Billy McCabe
- Donnie is Angus Miller
- Conor McCarry is PC Alex Grant
- Anne Kidd plays Cora McLean
Jimmy’s connections make it difficult to predict the future of stars like Lucianne McEvoy or Erin Armstrong.
Shetland Season 8 plot: What’s the story?
Shetland had long hinted at Jimmy’s departure, but we only learned his fate towards the end of season seven.
Jimmy saved a man from death and extradition, which was clearly the right thing to have done, but not when it came to his career.
In the final episode of season seven, Jimmy said to Rhona that if the last thing I do was help an innocent man then I’m fine with that.”
Jimmy’s detective role is over. Although we won’t know what happens next to Jimmy and Meg, it is safe to assume that new episodes Shetland will introduce a new lead along with the familiar cases fans have loved for the past nine years.
Shetland trailer 8: When can you watch it?
Filming is expected to begin in spring 2023. We can expect new footage for Shetland‘s eight season to air in the summer or in the fall 2023.
Keep checking back for new updates.
Shetland airs on BBC One. It is also available to stream via BBC iPlayer.
