Douglas Henshall as Jimmy Perez in Shetland looks windswept
TV

Douglas Henshall exits BBC’s Shetland, series 8 to introduce new lead

We'll all miss DI Jimmy Perez so much!

Douglas Henshall broke Shetland fans’ hearts when he confirmed he will be departing the BBC drama during series 7.

The DI Jimmy Perez star has been the crime thriller‘s top talent since it began airing back in March 2013.

However, despite Douglas’ exit, Shetland will continue – according to reports an eighth series in 2023 will see a new lead cast.

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And there’s plenty more to look forward to from Douglas too, including a crime drama set in Spain…

Douglas Henshall as Jimmy Perez in Shetland near to a police car
Actor Douglas Henshall is moving on from Shetland (Credit: BBC YouTube)

Why is Douglas Henshall leaving Shetland?

As news of Douglas‘ leaving was announced, he reflected on how playing the role has been ‘one of the privileges of his career’.

The Scottish actor, 56, also explained how he and writer David Kane planned out ‘wrapping up’ Jimmy’s story after series 5.

He also noted he would miss playing the character, as well as the location which provides so much atmosphere to the drama.

Douglas has subsequently indicated quitting was a difficult decision. But he is glad for the show’s sake that it is on the terms of those involved in the production, rather than the show not getting recommissioned.

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Douglas Henshall as Jimmy Perez in Shetland looks to the side

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Douglas Henshall, Shetland actor, out of character
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Douglas Henshall as Jimmy Perez in Shetland looks aghast

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Robert Leigh
Freelance writer