Beloved BBC detective Alison O'Donnell has announced her exit from the hit drama Shetland after 13 years, prompting an outpouring of emotion from fans.
A Founding Cast Member
Alison first brought the character of DS Alison "Tosh" McIntosh to life in 2013, when the acclaimed novels by crime author Ann Cleeves were adapted for television. As a founding cast member, she has been a staple of the series for over a decade.
Now, Alison has decided to leave Shetland in pursuit of new acting challenges.
Emotional Farewell Statement
In a statement, Alison said: "Playing Tosh has been the greatest gift an actor could hope for. To be able to stay with the character, to allow her to grow in depth and maturity, and to be consistently rewarded and challenged by the writing and stories, has been such a rich and special experience."
She added: "And to have had the support and loyalty of our wonderful audience has meant so much. I feel so incredibly lucky to have worked with so many hugely talented people both on and off screen."
Reflecting on her journey, Alison continued: "I grew up in this job. It has shaped me as an actor, and as a collaborator. It's in my bones and in my heart. As are the isles themselves, which have become like a second home to me, and to my family. It's not going to be easy to leave it all behind, but I am excited for the future, for new adventures, and to take everything I have learned and loved in Shetland forward with me, to whatever may come next."
Tributes from Producers
Gaynor Holmes, Executive Producer for BBC Drama, commented: "Alison has been a pleasure to work with and has truly brought the character of Tosh to life over the years. Her warmth shines through on screen, and we will ensure Tosh is given the fitting farewell she deserves. We are enormously grateful to Alison for everything she has brought to Shetland and can't wait to see what the future holds for her."
Kate Bartlett, Executive Producer at Silverprint Pictures, added: "It has been such a privilege to work with Alison and see her incredible performances grow and evolve over each series of Shetland. Tosh is a truly beloved character, with such huge empathy and warmth, and we will all be so sad to see her leave. Alison has been outstanding in the role and I can't wait to see what she does next."
Fan Reaction
Devastated Shetland fans quickly took to social media following the news. One viewer posted on X: "No Tosh and no Jimmy," accompanied by crying emojis.
Final Storyline
Alison's final storyline features in a gripping new six-part series, which revolves around a historical murder that will permanently alter the lives of everyone involved in the present day.
Production on the latest series has recently commenced in Scotland, with Alison returning to her role alongside Ashley Jensen as DI Ruth Calder.
The new series welcomes Christine Bottomley, Kevin Harvey, Stella Gonet, Gregor Fisher, and Gavin Mitchell to the cast. Additional guest appearances feature John Wark, Jude Bain, Robin Weaver, John McLarnon, Beth Marshall, Daniel Boyd, Charlene Boyd, and Helen Mackay.
Alison and Ashley are also reunited with established cast members Steven Robertson, Lewis Howden, Samuel Anderson, Steven Miller, Anne Kidd, Angus Miller, Connor McCarry, and Eubha Akilade.
Shetland can be streamed on BBC iPlayer.
