BBC's long-running forensic drama Silent Witness is preparing for a significant transformation as it enters its 29th series, with the production relocating from London to Birmingham. Star Emilia Fox has offered tantalising glimpses into the upcoming season, promising substantial narrative developments and a fresh visual aesthetic for the beloved programme.
A New Chapter in the Midlands
The acclaimed series, which follows a team of forensic pathology experts investigating complex crimes, will premiere its new episodes in February. This latest instalment marks a pivotal shift, with the fictional team having moved their base of operations from the capital to England's second city. Emilia Fox, who portrays the lead character Dr Nikki Alexander, has confirmed that the new series will explore her character's married life with partner Jack Hodgson, played by David Caves, as they settle into their Birmingham surroundings.
Themes of Trust and Reality
Fox has revealed that the overarching theme connecting the series' multiple storylines will be "trust and what we can believe in and what's real." This concept will permeate various plot elements, from examinations of artificial intelligence to explorations of personal relationships. The actress specifically highlighted that Jack Hodgson will encounter "some big storylines" throughout the season. According to BBC statements, the entire team will confront some of their most challenging cases to date, ensuring high-stakes drama for loyal viewers.
Discovering Birmingham's Character
Discussing the experience of filming in the new location, Fox expressed enthusiasm for Birmingham's distinctive environment. She described it as "a really beautiful city" with "incredible industrial buildings where the history of Birmingham feels very present." The production also took advantage of nearby countryside areas, which the actress believes contributes to a different aesthetic feel for the series.
The city's extensive canal network particularly impressed the cast and crew, with Fox noting that these waterways help provide the show with "different evolutions, different regular characters and different locations." The star also shared positive experiences with local residents, stating that the production team felt warmly welcomed during their time filming in various Birmingham districts.
Culinary Exploration
Beyond the filming locations, Fox embraced the opportunity to explore Birmingham's culinary scene. She recounted memorable dining experiences in the Jewellery Quarter, where she enjoyed "one of the best Italian meals I have ever had," and visited the famous Balti Triangle to sample authentic Balti cuisine, which she considers an essential Birmingham experience.
Series Details and Returning Cast
Silent Witness, which first aired in 1996, remains a cornerstone of BBC drama programming. The upcoming series will present five new stories across ten episodes, maintaining the show's successful format. Alongside Fox and David Caves, familiar faces including Maggie Steed as Harriet and Fran Mills as Kit will return to their roles.
The ensemble will be joined by several guest stars throughout the series, with confirmed appearances from Lydia Wilson, Chris Reilly, Ben Batt, Gerard Kearns, Phaldut Sharma, Dino Fetscher, and Cat Simmons. This combination of established characters and new talent promises to deliver the compelling storytelling that has sustained the programme's popularity for nearly three decades.
The new series of Silent Witness begins airing on Monday, February 2nd, with episodes available on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Mondays and Tuesdays.
