Why Shetland remains the true star of the crime drama

For more than a decade, millions of viewers have been introduced to Shetland through the BBC drama Shetland. While plot twists, gripping mysteries and memorable characters have helped make the series a success, many fans would argue that the islands themselves have always been the show's true star.

The same is true for some of those who have helped bring the stories to life on television screens globally, including original cast member Alison O’Donnell. She bids farewell to the show in series 11, and to her character Alison “Tosh” McIntosh, who has been central to many of the stories.

“I’ll miss the magic and the majesty of Shetland,” she said, reflecting on her departure.

From dramatic coastlines and windswept beaches to quiet crofts, busy harbours and close-knit communities, Shetland provides far more than a dramatic television setting. That’s what makes it such a compelling location for storytellers, photographers, filmmakers and artists.

The places that inspire such creativity and wonder are not simply film sets. They are living landscapes and real places where careers are built, family lives are lived and community connections are made.

Shetland's landscape can feel vast, rugged and untamed, while communities around the islands offer a sense of welcome and familiarity. It is this contrast that has helped make the islands such a compelling location for storytellers, photographers, filmmakers and visitors alike.

Over eleven series, audiences have followed detectives through some of Shetland's most remarkable locations, but the places depicted on screen are not simply film sets. They are working communities, living landscapes and real places where people build careers, raise families and create lives connected to the sea, land and each other.

And it’s the kind of place that can leave a lasting impression – especially for those who foster a connection over as many years as O’Donnell. For her, Shetland became much more than another filming location.

Speaking about her time on the islands, she remembers how “nature and the landscape come to meet you in the most humbling and awe-inspiring way.” And she recalled bringing her family to Shetland enjoying trips to Sands of Sound, her favourite beach, and shopping for gifts.

Of course, O'Donnell will also miss Tosh, the character, who has been a “constant companion for over a decade”. And she is certain she will return to the islands to enjoy them as a visitor.

“I really look forward to coming up in a few years and taking my children back to all our favourite haunts and seeing what's changed and what's the same…

"It'll be nice to be there and just be a tourist!”

O’Donnell is not the only cast member to feel inspired by Shetland. Her co-star Ashley Jensen has also shared her reflections on filming in the islands and what makes the show so special.

“In one word, 'Shetland'. The location is ultimately the star of the show.”

Like her departing colleague, Jensen believes there is something magical about the islands and says she and the crew are genuinely excited to return each year for filming.

“You walk the streets, you get to know the landscape, and you feel part of the place.”

Series 11 of Shetland is available to UK viewers from 12^th November 2026, along with all previous series. The show is also shown internationally through different streaming services.

If you're inspired by Shetland's spectacular landscapes and rugged locations, why not consider making the move? Discover more about life in Shetland.