Beloved BBC series returning with two new stars in cast shake-up

BBC hit drama Silent Witness has been given the green light to return to our TV screens next year and viewers will be introduced to two new cast members.

Maggie Steed and Francesca Mills will be joining Dr Nikki Alexander, played by Emilia Fox and Jack Hodgson, played by David Caves for five brand new stories, told over ten episodes.

The new series, which focuses on a team of forensic pathologists, opens with a disturbing mystery when the death of an elderly woman found in a cave has the team asking what drives a person to murder someone so vulnerable. We also get an introduction to the two dynamic new team members.

Speaking about joining the cast, Maggie said: “I was delighted to be asked to join Silent Witness. I’ve enjoyed it many times over the years and it’s always been the most intriguing and entertaining series going, so it’s been a thrill to join.”

Francesca Mills went on to say: “I’m thrilled to be joining such a long-running, much-loved series as Silent Witness and I really look forward to being a part of the stellar cast. This will be the 28th Series, and it is still going from strength to strength.”

Meanwhile, Studios Executive Producer, Suzi McIntosh said: “I could not be more delighted to welcome our fabulous new cast to our Silent Witness family. Both Maggie and Fran bring their talent to our exciting and original new characters who will help carry our stories brilliantly. So watch this space!”

The drama began in 1996 and followed the investigations into various murders and after all these years fans, keep begging for more. It was created by Nigel McCrery, a former murder squad detective based in Nottingham.

Silent Witness has been filmed mainly in London, as well as other locations in the UK. However, the BBC has revealed plans to move production of the programme to the West Midlands, which will help bring more regional accents into the programme.

Charlotte Moore, BBC Chief Content Officer said: “The BBC is committed to investing in the West Midlands. This plan will create a future-proof skills base in the region that will fundamentally change the landscape boosting high-impact content production with the arrival of the hugely popular hit series Silent Witness in 2024.

"I’m excited about the increased opportunities this will bring to the creative talent in the area.”

Past series of Silent Witness are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.