Shetland viewers are mourning the loss of one of the crime drama’s most beloved characters after Alison O’Donnell announced she is leaving the series after more than a decade.
The actress, who has played Detective Sergeant Alison ‘Tosh’ McIntosh since the show first launched in 2013, will bow out during the upcoming 11th series. Her departure marks the end of an era for the hit drama, with Tosh having remained a constant presence through multiple cast shake-ups, including the exits of leading stars Douglas Henshall and Ashley Jensen’s arrival as DI Ruth Calder.
Fans were quick to react after the news was announced, with many admitting they could not imagine the show without her. ‘That’s just devastating news!’ wrote one viewer. Another added: ‘Aww what a shame. Won’t be the same.’ A third said: ‘Very sad news indeed. I do hope at least Tosh gets a very happy and fitting end to her story on Shetland.’
Others were equally stunned, with one fan posting: ‘I’m shocked I tell you. Shocked!’ While another simply wrote: ‘Ah it’s a pity. I like her.’
O’Donnell has been part of the series since its very first adaptation of Ann Cleeves’ bestselling crime novels and has watched Tosh evolve from a young detective into one of the show’s emotional anchors. Reflecting on her decision to leave, the actress described the role as the defining experience of her career.
‘Playing Tosh has been the greatest gift an actor could hope for,’ she said. ‘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.’
‘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. It’s not going to be easy to leave it all behind, but I am excited for the future, for new adventures.’
The BBC has promised viewers that Tosh’s exit will not be a quiet one. According to programme bosses, O’Donnell’s final episodes will form part of a major storyline in the next six-part series, which revolves around a historic murder whose consequences continue to reverberate in the present day.
BBC drama executive producer Gaynor Holmes praised the actress for bringing warmth and humanity to the role over the years. ‘Her warmth shines through on screen, and we will ensure Tosh is given the fitting farewell she deserves,’ she said.
Silverprint Pictures executive producer Kate Bartlett echoed those sentiments, calling Tosh a ‘truly beloved character’ and describing O’Donnell as ‘outstanding’ throughout her 13 years on the show, according to the BBC.
The departure is a significant moment for Shetland, which remains one of the BBC’s most successful dramas. The series was among the broadcaster’s five most-watched dramas last year and continues to dominate ratings in Scotland.
