Gold star for Perez

By Promote ShetlandOctober 18th 2021

Hollywood-style star unveiled to mark TV series' contribution to Shetland's tourism industry.

The lodberrie house made famous as the home of DI Jimmy Perez in BBC’s Shetland series is one of Lerwick’s most visited locations.

And now there is another reason to visit the iconic spot at the south end of Commercial Street. The town has paid tribute to actor Douglas Henshall who brings the Perez to life with his depiction of the fictional detective created by Ann Cleeves.

A Hollywood-style star has been unveiled by tourism chiefs in recognition of the positive impact Perez has had on Shetland and the number of visitors who are keen to find out more about the show

Visit Scotland’s Shetland manager Steve Mathieson said the idea for the star came out of a meeting between Visit Scotland, the business improvement district Living Lerwick and Shetland Islands Council’s roads department.

Mr Mathieson said: “We thought a Hollywood-type star would be a fun but sincere tribute to the success the show has had and the very positive effect on Shetland tourism.

“The location is fitting as it’s outside the lodberrie house where DI Jimmy Perez lives in the series and will act as a marker for the hundreds of tourists who are fans of the show and who seek out the location each year.”

Henshall himself was presented with a special memento – a half-size glass replica of the new star created by craftsman Rae Simpson, a former Lerwick Up Helly Aa Guizer Jarl.

Mr Mathieson told Shetland News that the fans of the series were just as absorbed by Shetland’s incredible scenery as they were by the gripping storylines.

He added: “Douglas Henshall’s portrayal of DI Jimmy Perez is, of course, central to the entire series and ranks in the top echelon of the many wonderful TV detectives who have become household names in the UK over recent years.

“Nearly every day during the summer, visitors will come into Lerwick iCentre and ask where they can find ‘the Jimmy Perez house’ or other locations highlighted in the series.”

Uncover Shetland’s natural drama by following our area guides – perfect for anyone wishing to follow in Jimmy Perez’s footsteps.

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