Emilia Fox, the star of the long-running BBC crime drama Silent Witness, has offered exciting insights into the upcoming 29th series, which sees the show undergo a significant relocation. The forensic pathology series, known for its gripping investigations into brutal crimes, will now be based in Birmingham instead of London, marking a fresh chapter for the beloved programme.
A New Beginning in Birmingham
According to reports, the new season follows Dr Nikki Alexander, played by Fox, and her husband Jack Hodgson, portrayed by David Caves, as they embark on married life in their new Birmingham setting. The BBC has confirmed that the duo, along with their colleagues, will confront some of their most challenging cases to date in this latest instalment.
Themes of Trust and Reality
Emilia Fox elaborated on the central themes of the series, stating, "The theme of this series, across the stories, is trust and what we can believe in and what's real. That crosses from stories about AI, to trust in relationships and Jack has some big storylines in this series." This suggests a blend of technological intrigue and personal drama that will captivate audiences.
Embracing Birmingham's Charm
Speaking about filming in the new location, Fox praised Birmingham as "a really beautiful city." She highlighted the city's industrial heritage and scenic countryside, noting, "There are some incredible industrial buildings where the history of Birmingham feels very present. That was as exciting to discover as the beautiful countryside, which is close to Birmingham, which we were also fortunate to film in. I think it gives the series a different aesthetic feel."
She also mentioned the striking canals and the warm welcome from locals, adding, "We've been welcomed by people in the city; people have been very friendly. I have loved exploring. I didn't know about the different quarters." Fox shared her culinary adventures, including a memorable Italian meal in the jewellery quarter and a visit to the Balti triangle for a traditional Balti dish.
Returning Favourites and Guest Stars
Silent Witness, which first aired in 1996, remains a firm favourite with viewers. The new series, scheduled to begin in February, will feature five new stories spread across 10 episodes. Alongside Nikki and Jack, fan favourites Harriet, played by Maggie Steed, and Kit, portrayed by Fran Mills, will return.
The series will also welcome a host of guest cast members, including Lydia Wilson, Chris Reilly, Ben Batt, and Gerard Kearns. Additional stars such as Phaldut Sharma, Dino Fetscher, and Cat Simmons are set to appear, promising a dynamic and engaging lineup.
Evolution of a Classic
Fox reflected on the show's evolution, saying, "The canals are so striking, and I think that all helps give the show different evolutions, different regular characters and different locations for the show to be based in." This move to Birmingham is poised to inject new energy into the series, offering fresh visuals and narratives while maintaining the core elements that have made it a success for nearly three decades.
