Shetland favourite Alison O'Donnell reveals it will take "years" for her to get over Tosh exit story

With its 11th season approaching, Shetland is about to see one of its biggest cast departures ever, with Allison O'Donnell set to bow out as DI 'Tosh' McIntosh.

O'Donnell has been a fixture on the show since its first season back in 2013, first starring opposite Douglas Henshall as DI Jimmy Perez until his depature in 2022. Since then, Tosh has been partnered with DI Ruth Calder, as played by Ashley Jensen.

Now, O'Donnell has teased what viewers can expect from Tosh's final storyline (without spoilers, of course), revealing that it will be "a wild ride".

O'Donnell said: "These were some of the most challenging scenes I've ever shot for the show. All I can say is there was a huge amount of work involved - the building of special sets, an incredible stunt artist, and some extremely deep emotional digging. Hopefully that doesn't give too much away.

"That's the thrilling side of it, but there were also many more thoughtful scenes with all the important people. It's all in there. I think it's a memorable exit. We'll see!"

When asked how she found filming her final scenes, O'Donnell added: "When something is as seismic as this was, you just can't really take it in as you're doing it. It's like trying to look directly at the sun. It's too big and powerful. So, I just got my costume on and went to set and tried to soak it all in and spend time with my favourite people and serve the scenes.

"On my final day, a lot of crew came dressed as Tosh. They were all wearing fair isle jumpers and had their hair up in a bun. It was so fun and thoughtful.

"Our producer Angus [Sharpe] made a speech after we wrapped my final scene but sadly I can't really remember what he said because I was crying, it just came over me. It just felt so overwhelming. I think it's going to take me years to fully process it."

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This season of Shetland will see the team make a discover the skeletal remains of an unknown male in the boot of a car dredged from the water.

The car belongs to Dr Raymond Linden, a respected local GP who fled the isles 9 years ago, so the team works for track him down and uncover the victim’s identity.

Shetland season 11 will kick off on BBC One on Thursday 12 November at 9pm. Seasons 1-10 are available to stream on BBC iPlayer. Ann Cleeves's Shetland novels are available to buy.

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Authors

James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.