Alison O'Donnell has confirmed her departure from the BBC crime drama Shetland after more than a decade playing DS Alison "Tosh" McIntosh. The actress first introduced the character in 2013 and has decided to leave the show to pursue new acting opportunities.
Potential replacements for Tosh
While the BBC has not officially announced the show's future or confirmed a replacement, bookmakers have shared their predictions. Douglas Henshall, who previously starred as DI Jimmy Perez before Ashley Jensen's Ruth Calder took over, is tipped for a return with odds of 12/1 from Betway. Other contenders include ex-Shetland cast member Mark Bonnar at 14/1, Martin Compston at 20/1, James Nesbitt at 25/1, and David Tennant at 33/1. Ralf Little from Death in Paradise and Martin Clunes from Doc Martin are also in the mix.
O'Donnell's emotional farewell
In a heartfelt statement, O'Donnell 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."
Reflections on her journey
Reflecting on her time on the show, O'Donnell said: "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." She concluded: "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."
Final series details
O'Donnell's final chapter unfolds in a new six-part series of Shetland, which revolves around a decades-old killing that will transform the lives of everyone involved. Filming for the new series has begun in Scotland, with O'Donnell reprising her role alongside Ashley Jensen as DI Ruth Calder. New cast members include Christine Bottomley, Kevin Harvey, Stella Gonet, Gregor Fisher, and Gavin Mitchell. Shetland is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
