Ashley Jensen joins Shetland

Ashley Jensen has joined 'Shetland'.

The 'After Life' actress will lead the cast of the BBC murder mystery drama when it returns for its next series in 2023.

Ashley will portray DI Ruth Calder, a native Shetlander who returns to the isles after 20 years working for the Met in London, taking over the lead detective role left vacant by DI Jimmy Perez (Douglas Henshall) and working closely with DS Alison ‘Tosh’ McIntosh (Alison O’Donnell).

She said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be joining Shetland as DI Ruth Calder.

"It’s such a hugely successful show and I am aware I have very big boots to fill since the departure of DI Perez, who was very much loved by fans of the show.

"There will be a different dynamic with Ruth amongst the regular characters and a few more new interesting characters to enjoy.

"However the integrity of the show and the world that has been created will remain very much in the same tone as the last seven seasons.

"It's a real privilege to be asked to lead this show into a new chapter. I can’t wait to be working in Scotland again. I have missed it!"

The next series of 'Shetland' - which was originally based on novels by crime writer Ann Cleeves - will also feature regulars Steven Robertson (Sandy), Lewis Howden (Billy) and Anne Kidd (Cora).

Gaynor Holmes, Commissioning Editor for the BBC, added: "I am absolutely delighted that Ashley is joining the stellar cast of 'Shetland'.

"Ashley is an immensely accomplished and well-loved actress who is known internationally and we can’t wait to welcome her into the Shetland family when filming begins in the spring."