Shetland, BBC1: four things you need to know about Series 3

The Scottish-set detective drama is back for an ambitious third series
Ben Travis15 January 2016

Just in case there weren’t enough murder mystery series on BBC One, here’s another returning favourite.

Shetland is back for a third series of criminal investigations in the Scottish islands, with Douglas Henshall returning as DI Jimmy Perez.

Here’s what you need to know about Shetland Series 3.

1) It’s one long story this time around

Where Series 2 comprised of three two-part mysteries, there’s a more ambitious plot in Series 3, spanning the full six episodes.

By being over six episodes, you can really get your teeth into it,” explains Julie Graham, who plays Rhona Kelly. “I think it’s a strong storyline as it’s about corruption at the heart of the powers that be and that’s what I really liked about it.”

2) There are new (but familiar) faces

A new big storyline means new supporting characters – joining the cast are Ciaran Hinds (that’s Mance Rayder, Game of Thrones fans) as Michael, and Wolf Hall’s Saskia Reeves as jewellery designer Freya.

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3) It’s the darkest series yet

A Scottish murder mystery isn’t exactly going to be Sunshine on Leith, but Douglas Henshall warns: “I think this is probably the darkest of the stories that we’ve done.”

4) Ann Cleeves approves of the storyline

It’s not the most faithful adaptation, but the inspiration for Shetland comes from Ann Cleeves’ novels about DI Jimmy Perez.

The third series isn’t based on one of her books, but Henshall confirms that Cleeves has given the story her seal of approval.

“This isn’t one of her stories but she was there for the readthrough and she’s always been very supportive,” he says.

BBC One, 9pm

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