Silent Witness Season 29: A Dramatic Relocation to Birmingham
The acclaimed BBC crime drama Silent Witness returns for its 29th season with a significant and exciting change of scenery. Following the conclusion of series 28, which culminated in the marriage of Dr Nikki Alexander and Jack Hodgson, the production has officially relocated from its traditional London base to the vibrant city of Birmingham. This move is not merely a logistical shift but is deeply woven into the narrative fabric of the new episodes.
A New Home at The Bowman Centre
The fictional forensic pathology team now operates from the newly established Sir William Bowman Centre of Excellence in Birmingham. This change provides a proper reset for the characters, as described by actor David Caves, who portrays Jack Hodgson. The team must adapt to new surroundings, fresh faces, and a different pace of life, though the demanding nature of their work ensures a far from quiet start to their Midland tenure.
For the characters of Nikki and Jack, this relocation coincides with the beginning of their married life, as they settle into a new home in the city. Emilia Fox, who plays Dr Nikki Alexander, notes that the new environment significantly impacts their characters and their relationship, adding a compelling new dynamic to the show's core partnership.
Embracing the Heart and Grit of Birmingham
The cast has spoken enthusiastically about filming in the West Midlands. Emilia Fox praised Birmingham as a really beautiful city, highlighting the striking industrial architecture that echoes the area's rich history and the picturesque countryside accessible nearby. She believes this blend gives the series a distinctly different aesthetic feel.
Key filming locations and experiences highlighted by the cast include:
- The city's extensive and visually striking canal network.
- The historic Jewellery Quarter, where Fox enjoyed an exceptional Italian meal.
- The famous Balti Triangle, a must-visit culinary destination for any Birmingham visitor.
- The iconic Bullring shopping centre, which held personal nostalgia for actress Francesca Mills.
David Caves echoed the sentiment, praising the warm welcome from local residents and the city's unique blend of grit and heart, which he feels perfectly complements the tone of the show. He humorously admitted to potentially gaining a few pounds thanks to the excellent local cuisine.
Plot and Premiere Details
Season 29, which premiered on BBC One on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 9pm, consists of five new stories told across ten episodes. The overarching theme of the series is trust. The opening episode, The Disappearance of Alice Hill - Part One, sees Nikki and Jack hunting a suspected hitman across Birmingham. The case becomes intricately linked to a past murder that captivated the nation, for which the wrong person may be imprisoned.
The entire series is now available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the new Birmingham-based investigations of the Lyell team.
