Shetland – A Complete Guide to the Acclaimed British Crime Drama

“Shetland” is one of the most atmospheric and compelling crime dramas to emerge from British television. Produced by ITV Studios for BBC Scotland, the series first premiered in 2013 and quickly gained a dedicated global audience. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Shetland Islands, the show blends gripping murder investigations with emotional character arcs, intricate writing, and a visual style that captures the lonely beauty of Scotland’s northern edge.

Based on the bestselling novels by Ann Cleeves, “Shetland” follows Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, a calm, compassionate, and determined investigator who navigates complex crimes in a small, tight-knit island community. Over the years, the series has grown into a multi-season success, praised for its realism, character depth, cultural authenticity, and stunning cinematography.

The Atmosphere of Shetland – More Than a Crime Show

“Shetland” stands out because it’s not just another detective series. The show uniquely blends crime-solving with the rhythms of island life:

1. A Living, Breathing Setting

The Shetland Islands are almost a character themselves—remote, windy, wild, and breathtakingly scenic. The landscapes help shape the tone of every episode: vast coastlines, dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and isolated communities create a sense of mystery and tension.

2. Slow-Burn Storytelling

Unlike fast-paced crime thrillers, “Shetland” balances suspense with emotional depth. It takes its time to explore:

• community relationships
• cultural traditions
• local conflicts
• family dynamics
• the psychological impact of crime

This gives viewers a more immersive and meaningful viewing experience.

3. Moral Complexity

The show often highlights the blurred lines between guilt and innocence, right and wrong. Characters are deeply human—flawed, vulnerable, and unpredictable—which keeps the audience emotionally invested.

Jimmy Perez – The Heart of the Series

Played brilliantly by Douglas Henshall, DI Jimmy Perez is the central figure of the series for its first seven seasons. Perez is not the typical hardened detective found in crime dramas. Instead, he is:

• thoughtful
• empathetic
• calm under pressure
• deeply connected to his community
• carrying emotional scars of his own

His leadership style is defined by intuition and humanity rather than brute force. Fans appreciate how Perez approaches each crime with sensitivity, making him one of the most beloved detectives in modern British TV.

Seasonal Evolution and Major Developments

“Shetland” evolves significantly from season to season, with richer storytelling and more complex crimes.

Early Seasons (1–2): Establishing the World

These seasons introduce the community dynamics, Perez’s team, and the island’s atmosphere. They start with adaptations of Ann Cleeves’ novels, helping viewers acclimate to the tone and characters.

Middle Seasons (3–5): Original Stories, High Stakes

As the show grew in popularity, writers began incorporating original storylines. These seasons feature darker mysteries, deeper character development, and more layered antagonists.

Season 6–7: A Mature and Emotional Peak

Jimmy Perez faces some of his most challenging cases while navigating emotional turmoil in his personal life. Season 7 marked the end of Douglas Henshall’s run as Perez, concluding in a heartfelt and memorable farewell.

Season 8–Present: A New Chapter

The series continues with a new lead—Ashley Jensen as DI Ruth Calder. This shift breathes fresh life into the show, proving that “Shetland” can evolve while maintaining the tone, suspense, and scenic beauty that fans love.

The Supporting Cast – A Strong Ensemble

“Shetland” boasts a memorable supporting cast whose chemistry enriches the narrative.

Key recurring characters include:

• Alison O’Donnell as DS Alison “Tosh” McIntosh – a fan favorite known for her intelligence, growth, and dedication.
• Steven Robertson as PC Sandy Wilson – loyal and dependable, with a strong connection to the island.
• Mark Bonnar as Duncan Hunter – Perez’s complex connection through family ties and personal conflict adds depth to the story.
• Erin Armstrong as Cassie Perez – Jimmy’s stepdaughter, providing emotional grounding throughout the early seasons.

Each character contributes significantly to the storytelling, giving the show a sense of continuity and emotional richness.

Themes That Define Shetland

1. Community & Connection

The close-knit nature of island communities means everyone knows each other. Crimes create shockwaves, and investigations often reveal hidden secrets.

2. Isolation & Vulnerability

The islands’ physical remoteness adds tension to every case—access is limited, and help is far away.

3. Identity & Heritage

Shetland’s Norse and Scottish roots are woven throughout the series, from festivals to dialects and traditions.

4. Humanity in Justice

The show doesn’t just solve crimes; it explores the emotional aftermath on victims, families, and the community.

Cinematography – The Show’s Visual Signature

The breathtaking landscapes of Shetland elevate the series to cinematic heights. Long, atmospheric shots capture:

• rugged beaches
• vast moors
• stormy skies
• small fishing villages
• remote homes and farms

This visual aesthetic creates a haunting yet beautiful backdrop that enhances every storyline.

Why Shetland Has Such a Loyal Fan Base

Consistency in Quality

Even after major cast changes, the writing and emotional depth remain strong.

Authentic Representation

The show respectfully portrays Scottish culture and island life.

Character-Driven Storytelling

The personal journeys of Perez, Tosh, and others keep viewers invested beyond the murder-of-the-week format.

A Perfect Blend of Mystery and Emotion

The series appeals to audiences who enjoy thoughtful crime dramas with emotional weight.

Is Shetland Based on True Events?

The show is not based on real-life cases. Instead, it draws inspiration from Ann Cleeves’ novels while using fictional crimes and imagined scenarios. However, the realism in community behavior, police procedures, and emotional complexity makes the stories feel authentic.

Where to Watch Shetland

Availability may vary depending on region, but “Shetland” can typically be streamed on:

• BBC iPlayer (UK)
• BritBox
• Acorn TV
• Amazon Prime Video (selected regions)

Conclusion 

“Shetland” is a masterpiece of modern British crime television—a show that balances mystery, heartbreak, suspense, and the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish isles. Whether you’re drawn to complex characters, atmospheric storytelling, or carefully crafted mysteries, this long-running series offers something exceptional.

With its evolving cast, fresh narratives, and consistently high production quality, “Shetland” remains one of the most engaging crime dramas of the past decade.

FAQs About Shetland

1. Is Shetland based on a true story?

No. The series is based on Ann Cleeves’ fictional novels and original scripts, not real cases.

2. Where is Shetland filmed?

Much of it is filmed on the actual Shetland Islands, though some scenes are shot on mainland Scotland for logistical reasons.

3. How many seasons of Shetland are there?

As of now, there are multiple seasons, with Douglas Henshall starring in the first seven and Ashley Jensen leading from Season 8 onward.

4. Do I need to read the books before watching the show?

Not at all. The series stands on its own, though book fans may enjoy seeing how the stories were adapted.

5. What makes Shetland different from other crime dramas?

Its stunning landscapes, emotional depth, slow-burn mysteries, and the empathetic character of Jimmy Perez set it apart.