Alison O'Donnell, who plays Tosh in the BBC series Shetland, has spoken openly about her decision to leave the role after 13 years, as the show's return date is confirmed for November 12. The new series will see Tosh and DI Ruth Calder, played by Ashley Jensen, solving their final case together.
Why Alison O'Donnell is leaving Shetland
Reflecting on her departure, O'Donnell said, "I'm not even really sure I know how to answer this one! It's not down to one particular thing, but rather a coming together of various components."
She added, "I've been involved with it for 14 years now and I've been so lucky to have been given so many different storylines and challenges and to have worked with so many extraordinary actors but at this point it feels like we've probably explored it enough."
"I don't think I would ever have found a moment to step away that didn't feel sad and bittersweet, but something in me said 'leap', and so I did."
What fans can expect from the final storyline
Discussing her final episodes, the actress described them as "A wild ride!? These were some of the most challenging scenes I've ever shot for the show."
"All I can say is there was a huge amount of work involved - the building of special sets, an incredible stunt artist, and some extremely deep emotional digging. Hopefully that doesn't give too much away," she said.
She added, "That's the thrilling side of it, but there were also many more thoughtful scenes with all the important people. It's all in there. I think it's a memorable exit. We'll see!"
Series 11 plot details
Series 11 centres on a historic murder that will forever change the lives of those connected in the present day. The synopsis teases, "As hidden secrets are stirred up from a watery grave, the ripple effects are felt in the community and beyond."
The team makes a grim discovery when a car is dredged from the water and skeletal remains of an unknown male are found in the boot. The car belongs to Dr Raymond Linden, a respected local GP who fled the isles nine years ago. An investigation unfolds to track down Dr Linden and uncover the victim's identity.
The synopsis continues, "Tosh and Calder meet Linden's formidable mother, Martha (played by Stella Gonet), and brother, Eric (John Wark). Martha is convinced that something terrible happened to Raymond, forcing him to leave. But Eric isn't as convinced."
"In contrast, Linden's ex-wife, Emily (Christine Bottomley), offers a very different account of her missing husband. Calder and Tosh learn that the doctor was troubled and, in turn, made her and their son Jonah's (Jude Bain) life a living hell."
"Elsewhere, Sandy meets Donald Pierce (Gregor Fisher), a lonely and overzealous old man, who finds himself unwittingly embroiled in the investigation."
As Calder and Tosh dig deeper to identify the victim in the car, they must delve into Raymond Linden's state of mind and the lives of the loved ones he left behind. Shetland returns to the BBC on November 12.
