Alison O’Donnell has announced she will be departing the BBC crime drama Shetland following 13 years in the role of DS Alison “Tosh” McIntosh.
The actress, who has been with the show since its debut in 2013, was among the original cast members when the series first brought Ann Cleeves’ acclaimed crime novels to television screens.
Ms O’Donnell described portraying Tosh as “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 said.
DS Alison ‘Tosh’ McIntosh in Shetland
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BBC
The actress expressed deep gratitude for the loyal viewership the programme has attracted over the years.
“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,” Ms O’Donnell added.
She reflected on how the role has profoundly influenced her career development.
“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,” she stated.
Alison O’Donnell described portraying Tosh as ‘the greatest gift an actor could hope for’
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BBC
The Scottish islands where production takes place have become deeply meaningful to the actress and her loved ones.
“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,” Ms O’Donnell said.
BBC Drama’s executive producer Gaynor Holmes praised the actress’s contribution to the series.
“Alison has been a pleasure to work with and has truly brought the character of Tosh to life over the years. Her warmth shines through on screen, and we will ensure Tosh is given the fitting farewell she deserves,” Ms Holmes commented.
DI ‘Tosh’ McIntosh and DI Ruth Calder (Ashley Jensen)
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BBC
Kate Bartlett, executive producer at Silverprint Pictures, also paid tribute to Ms O’Donnell’s work.
“It has been such a privilege to work with Alison and see her incredible performances grow and evolve over each series of Shetland.
“Tosh is a truly beloved character, with such huge empathy and warmth, and we will all be so sad to see her leave,” Ms Bartlett said.
Production on the 11th series is currently underway in Scotland, with the new episodes expected to broadcast later this year.
Ms O’Donnell actress expressed deep gratitude for the loyal viewership the programme has attracted over the years
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BBC
Ms O’Donnell’s farewell storyline forms part of a six-part series focusing on a historical killing that will have lasting consequences for those connected to it in the present day.
The actress will appear alongside Ashley Jensen, who plays DI Ruth Calder, in her final outing.
New additions to the cast include Christine Bottomley, Kevin Harvey, Stella Gonet, Gregor Fisher, and Gavin Mitchell, with further guest appearances from John Wark, Jude Bain, Robin Weaver, and others.
Returning cast members include Steven Robertson, Lewis Howden, Samuel Anderson, and Steven Miller.Shetland ranked among the five most-watched BBC Drama productions in 2025 and holds the top position for BBC Drama viewership in Scotland.