Shetland Renewed for Two More Series After Gripping Series 10 Finale

Lerwick, Shetland — In a thrilling surprise for fans, the BBC has confirmed that the beloved Scottish crime drama Shetland will return for both Series 11 in 2026 and Series 12, securing the show’s future through at least 2027. The double renewal was announced via an on-screen caption at the conclusion of the Series 10 finale, which aired on December 10, 2025, leaving viewers buzzing with excitement amid the episode’s dramatic revelations.

Series 10 concluded with a tense resolution to the murder of social worker Eadie Tulloch. DI Ruth Calder (Ashley Jensen) and DS Alison “Tosh” McIntosh (Alison O’Donnell) painstakingly unraveled a complex web of deception, family secrets, and drug-related corruption plaguing the islands. In a shocking twist, local figure Arthur Mair was unmasked as the killer, motivated by long-concealed truths tied to Eadie’s professional past. Mair’s confession exposed how her investigations into vulnerable families had inadvertently threatened hidden criminal networks, blending personal vendettas with broader community issues. The finale’s emotional climax saw Calder and Tosh confronting the fallout, reinforcing their strong partnership while highlighting the toll of island policing.

The announcement has solidified Shetland‘s status as one of the BBC’s most reliable and enduring crime dramas. Adapted from Ann Cleeves’ bestselling novels, the series has captivated audiences since its 2013 debut with its atmospheric portrayal of the remote archipelago, blending brooding landscapes with intricate mysteries. Viewership remained robust throughout Series 10, proving the show’s resilience even after significant changes.

A pivotal shift occurred in 2022 when Douglas Henshall, who portrayed the brooding DI Jimmy Pérez for seven series, departed the show. Henshall’s exit followed Series 7, with his character retiring to a quieter life after solving a high-stakes case. Since then, Ashley Jensen has stepped in as the no-nonsense DI Ruth Calder, a Shetland native returning from a mainland posting, bringing a fresh dynamic. Paired with the loyal and empathetic Tosh—played impeccably by Alison O’Donnell—the duo has won over skeptics, establishing a compelling new era focused on female-led investigations.

Henshall has repeatedly stated he has no plans to reprise his role on television, emphasizing a desire to explore new projects. However, Pérez continues to appear in Cleeves’ recent novels, delighting book fans while keeping the door metaphorically open in the literary world. “I’ve loved my time on the show, but it’s time to move on,” Henshall said in previous interviews, praising Jensen and O’Donnell for carrying the torch.

Looking ahead, Series 11 promises another standalone yet deeply atmospheric case. The new season will center on the sinister murder of an elderly woman in a remote Shetland village. As Calder and Tosh delve into the tight-knit community, long-buried secrets—spanning generations of feuds, hidden affairs, and unspoken traumas—will surface, threatening devastating consequences for residents and investigators alike. The isolated setting is expected to amplify the tension, with harsh weather and insular loyalties complicating the probe. Returning cast members, including Steven Robertson as DC Sandy Wilson and Lewis Howden as Sgt Billy McCabe, will navigate the fallout alongside the leads.

Producers have teased that upcoming series will continue exploring contemporary issues affecting rural Scotland, such as isolation, mental health, and emerging crime trends, while staying true to the show’s hallmark slow-burn storytelling and stunning cinematography. Filming for Series 11 is slated to begin in spring 2026, with locations across the real Shetland Isles once again providing the haunting backdrop.

The double renewal underscores the BBC’s confidence in the format. In an era of streaming competition, Shetland stands out for its consistent quality and international appeal—it has been sold to broadcasters worldwide, including PBS in the US and networks in Australia and Scandinavia. Critics have praised its evolution, noting how Jensen’s sharper-edged Calder complements O’Donnell’s warmer Tosh, creating a balanced dynamic that honors the show’s roots while pushing forward.

Fans reacted ecstatically online, with social media flooded by relief and anticipation. “The perfect Christmas gift from the BBC!” one viewer posted, while others speculated on potential crossovers or deeper dives into Tosh’s personal life.

As Shetland prepares for more dark winters and unforgiving tides, the islands’ mysteries show no sign of running dry. With Ashley Jensen and Alison O’Donnell at the helm, the series remains a beacon of British television excellence.