Silent Witness returned for its 29th series on Monday, but viewers were quick to notice a major change in one of the show's beloved characters. Jack Hodgson, played by David Caves, debuted a new beard, sparking mixed reactions on social media.
Many fans took to X, formerly Twitter, to express their displeasure. One wrote: 'I'm not liking Jack's new facial hair,' while another said: 'I don't like Jack with a beard.' Some compared the look to historical figures, with one user asking: 'Why is Jack’s facial hair giving Guy Fawkes?' and another noting: 'Jack is giving me Shakespeare vibes with the facial hair and the turtleneck.'
However, not all feedback was negative. Some viewers praised the makeover, calling it 'most stylish and debonair.' One fan asked: 'Okay, how does Jack actually manage to look kinda hot with that facial hair?'
The new series also sees the team relocate from London to Birmingham. In the opening episode, Nikki and Jack—who married at the end of the last series—investigate a suspected hitman who claims responsibility for a high-profile murder, despite another person already being jailed for the crime.
Despite the beard controversy, many fans were thrilled to see the show back. One posted: 'Oh Silent Witness... we have missed you! Welcome back for a new series.' Another added: 'And we’re back!!!'
