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Shetland

Shetland

20138
DramaKriminalMystik
Släppt
10 mars 2013
Land
Storbritannien
Produktioner
ITV StudiosBBC Scotland
Skapad från böckerna av den prisbelönta kriminalförfattaren Ann Cleeves, följer Shetland DI Jimmy Perez och hans team när de utredar brott i det tätt sammanbundna ögruppssamhället. I denna isolerade och ibland ogästvänliga miljö måste teamet förlita sig på en unik resursfull polisstil.

About

Quick guide

A crime drama set on Scotland’s isolated Shetland Islands. Follow DI Jimmy Pérez and his team through complex investigations.

Shetland follows Detective Inspector Jimmy Pérez, portrayed by Douglas Henshall, as he leads a small police team through a series of murders and mysteries in the remote Shetland Islands. Set against the harsh, windswept backdrop of the North Atlantic, the show blends crime investigation with the tight‑knit community life of the archipelago. Based on Ann Cleeves’s bestselling novels, each season adapts one or more stories, maintaining a grounded tone while exploring themes of isolation, family ties and local culture. The series combines atmospheric setting, strong dialogue, and complex characters, offering a slower‑paced yet engaging mystery experience. Its blend of Scottish dialect and English keeps the narrative authentic to the region.

What to know

  • A crime drama set in the remote Shetland Islands.
  • Features DI Jimmy Pérez and his team of local police.
  • Based on novels by Ann Cleeves, adapted for TV by David Kane.
  • Each episode runs about 57 minutes.
  • Filmed on location in Shetland, Fair Isle, and mainland Scotland.
  • The show incorporates Scots dialect alongside English.
  • Multiple awards, including BAFTA Scotland Best Actor 2016.

Watch if

If you appreciate atmospheric detective dramas with deep character development, a strong sense of place, and a blend of mystery and local culture, you'll enjoy Shetland.

Skip if

If you prefer fast‑paced action series, light‑hearted comedies, or shows with minimal dialogue, this slow‑moving, dialogue‑heavy crime drama may not suit you.

crime violencedark tonedialogue heavyinvestigation heavylanguage strongmature themessuspensefulpsychological elementsslow burnsome gore
Premise
Shetland follows DI Jimmy Pérez as he leads the Shetland Police Investigations Unit through a series of murders that unravel the quiet island community. Each case reveals layers of local culture, personal ties, and the harsh realities of living in isolation. The narrative balances investigative procedure with the everyday lives of residents, creating a grounded, atmospheric storyline.
Cast & Characters
The main cast features Douglas Henshall as DI Jimmy Pérez, Alison O'Donnell as DS "Tosh" McIntosh, and from season eight Ashley Jensen as DI Ruth Calder. Supporting roles include Steven Robertson as DC Sandy Wilson, and recurring characters such as forensics specialist Cora McLean. The ensemble reflects a close‑knit team that evolves over ten seasons, highlighting personal and professional dynamics.
Production & Filming
Principal photography takes place on Shetland, Fair Isle, and mainland Scotland, capturing the islands’ rugged landscapes and maritime culture. Filming locations include Lerwick, the NorthLink ferry, and the village of Wester Quarff. The production team strives for authenticity, using local dialects and on‑location sets to immerse viewers in the environment.
Episodes & Seasons
The series comprises ten seasons and 56 episodes, beginning with a two‑part pilot in 2013. Subsequent seasons generally feature six episodes each. Episode lengths average 57 minutes, offering substantial narrative depth and character development within each case.
Awards & Reception
Shetland earned the BAFTA Scotland Award for Best TV Drama in 2016, and Douglas Henshall received Best Actor the same year. Critics praised its atmospheric tone, strong performances, and authentic depiction of island life, cementing its status as a standout crime drama.
Where to Watch
The series is available on BBC iPlayer and has streamed on Netflix, BritBox, and Amazon for various seasons. Fans can catch new episodes on BBC One or access past seasons through the UK’s digital platforms.

FAQ

50 Q&A
Who plays Detective Sergeant Sandy Wilson?
Detective Sergeant Sandy Wilson is played by Steven Robertson.
Who was the killer in season 6?
The killer in season 6 was identified as Michael McGregor.
How many seasons of Shetland are there?
As of February 2026, there are 7 seasons of Shetland.
Who is the main character's boss?
The main character's boss is often DI (Detective Inspector) John McNab or his superiors at the time.
Does Sandy get promoted?
Sandy does not get a promotion in the main story arcs shown so far.
What happened to Jimmy Perez's wife?
Jimmy Perez's wife, Fran, died some years before the series began.
Does Tosh become a detective?
Yes, Tosh becomes a Detective Inspector.
Who plays Jimmy Perez in Shetland?
Jimmy Perez is played by Douglas Henshall.
What happened to the baby in season 6?
The baby in season 6, the daughter of the victim, was found safe and sound.
Where does the show Shetland take place?
The show Shetland takes place in Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland.
What is the TV show Shetland about?
Shetland is a crime drama series about a team of police detectives solving crimes in the Shetland Islands.
Who is the main detective in Shetland?
The main detective in Shetland is Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez.
Is Shetland based on a book?
Yes, Shetland is based on the novel series by Ann Cleeves.
What island is the show Shetland filmed on?
The show Shetland is filmed on location in Shetland, primarily on the mainland and the island of Whalsay.
Who is the new detective in charge after Perez?
After Jimmy Perez leaves, DI Jimmy Perez is replaced by DI Ruth Galloway, and later DI Tosh Mackintosh takes over.
Who plays Detective Sergeant Tosh Mackintosh?
Detective Sergeant Tosh Mackintosh is played by Alison O'Donnell.
Who wrote the Shetland books?
The Shetland books were written by Ann Cleeves.
What happened to Jimmy Perez at the end of season 6?
At the end of season 6, Jimmy Perez dies after donating his organs.
When did Shetland first air?
Shetland first aired on March 10, 2013.
What is the relationship between Tosh and Sandy?
Tosh and Sandy are colleagues and close friends who work together as detectives.
What is the main police station in Shetland?
The main police station featured in Shetland is Lerwick Police Station.
What is the name of the pub most characters visit?
The pub most characters visit is often referred to as "The Port".
Who is the archaeologist character?
The archaeologist character is Dr. Sarah 'Sal' MacIntyre.
What kind of crimes are usually investigated in Shetland?
Crimes investigated in Shetland are typically murders, disappearances, and other serious offenses within the island community.
What is the name of Jimmy Perez's daughter?
Jimmy Perez's daughter is named Cassie.
What is the name of the actor who plays the new DI?
DI Ruth Galloway is played by a new actor in the latest season.
What is the main conflict in the early seasons?
The main conflict in early seasons often involves solving murders that deeply affect the close-knit island community.
Are the characters in Shetland based on real people?
The characters are fictional, created for the TV show, though they represent life in Shetland.
How do the police solve crimes in a small community?
Police solve crimes by using local knowledge, talking to islanders, and understanding how everyone is connected.
What is the relationship between Jimmy and his father?
Jimmy Perez's relationship with his father is strained and complex.
How is the weather shown in Shetland?
The weather in Shetland is shown as harsh and often stormy, reflecting the real climate of the islands.
What is the name of the ferry that goes to Shetland?
The ferry service to Shetland is operated by NorthLink Ferries.
What is the final fate of Jimmy Perez?
Jimmy Perez dies in the final episode of season 7.
What happens to Tosh in the final season?
Tosh remains a detective and faces new challenges after Jimmy's departure.
What is the significance of the croft houses?
Croft houses represent traditional island life and are often central to the stories and settings.
Is Shetland a happy show?
Shetland is not always a happy show; it deals with serious crimes and emotional storylines.
What are the common themes in Shetland episodes?
Common themes include community, family, secrets, isolation, and the impact of crime on a small place.
Who is Detective Inspector Ruth Galloway?
Detective Inspector Ruth Galloway is a forensic archaeologist who sometimes assists the police.
Who is the main villain in season 1?
The main villain in season 1 is the killer of Hionna Fraser.
What is the history of the Shetland Islands?
Shetland has a rich history, once belonging to Norway, with Viking roots and a unique cultural identity.
What is the role of the journalist in the show?
The journalist often gets involved in cases, sometimes uncovering information the police miss.
Who plays the character of Duncan?
Duncan McAskill is played by actor Euan Stevenson.
Who took over as DI after Jimmy Perez left?
DI Jimmy Perez was replaced by DI Ash. (Note: This is a common misconception; DI Ruth Galloway takes over primary investigative duties in the absence of a permanent DI).
Who is the main actor who plays Jimmy Perez?
Jimmy Perez is played by actor Douglas Henshall.
What is the name of the newspaper in Shetland?
The local newspaper is called The Shetland Times.
What happened to the character Cassie?
Cassie was murdered in the line of duty in season 3.
How are the local customs shown in Shetland?
Local customs like the Up Helly Aa fire festival and traditional ways of life are often featured.
What is the name of the final episode of season 7?
The final episode of season 7 is titled 'Series 7: Episode 6'.
Who is the new lead detective in Shetland?
DI Ruth Galloway becomes the lead detective after DI Perez's death.
What is the island's main industry besides tourism?
Besides tourism, Shetland's main industries include fishing and oil.

Skådespelare

Alison O'Donnell
Alison O'Donnell
DI Alison 'Tosh' McIntosh
Steven Robertson
Steven Robertson
DC Sandy Wilson
Lewis Howden
Lewis Howden
Sgt Billy McCabe