“Get ready to meet the new faces in the Shetland Islands, as popular BBC Scotland drama Gavin and Stacey has cast a new actor alongside Christine Baranski and Ruth Jones. The beloved sitcom, which has captured the hearts of audiences across the UK, is set to premiere its long-awaited return to the small island nation of Shetland this autumn.”
Gavin and Stacey Star Joins New Shetland Cast – BBC
Amandaland Spin-Off
Cast and Characters

The BBC has unveiled an impressive cast for the upcoming Motherland spin-off, Amandaland, featuring a mix of familiar faces and new talent. The ensemble cast includes Lucy Punch, Samuel Anderson, Siobhan McSweeney, Rochenda Sandall, Ekow Quartey, and Peter Serafinowicz, all stepping into roles that promise to add depth and nuance to the new series.
- Lucy Punch plays Amanda, a wealthy and snobbish mother who is the central character and is adjusting to life in South Harlesden.
- Samuel Anderson, well-known for his role in Gavin and Stacey, takes on the role of Mal, adding another layer to the suburban drama.
- Siobhan McSweeney brings her talent from Derry Girls as Della, another parent at the children’s school.
- Rochenda Sandall from Line of Duty stars as Fi, a new character who will interact with Amanda and her circle.
- Ekow Quartey, who starred in Trying, takes on the role of JJ, another parent and Amanda’s neighbor.
- Peter Serafinowicz (The Gentlemen) rounds out the cast as Johannes, a significant figure in Amanda’s new life.
- Lucy, alongside fellow original cast members Joanna Lumley as Felicity and Philippa Dunne as Anne, return to their respective roles.
Plot and Premise

Amandaland, a spin-off of the acclaimed Motherland, brings to light the challenges and intricacies of modern motherhood through the lens of Amanda, a wealthy and snobbish mum. The series delves into the life of Amanda as she downsizes to South Harlesden and navigates the complex world of parenting teenagers, modern school gate politics, and the dynamics of co-dependency with her mother Felicity. The plot not only explores the usual struggles of raising children but also touches on contemporary issues like eco-anxiety and social media, thus providing a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by today’s mothers.
Behind-the-Scenes

Show creator Sharon Horgan and co-founder of production company Merman expressed enthusiasm about the next chapter of the Motherland universe. Horgan stated, “The continuation of Amanda and Anne’s journey is a thrilling prospect, especially with such a talented and funny cast. It’s a unique opportunity to delve into the complexities of modern family life and the unspoken rules of the school gates.” The series is set to premiere on BBC One and iPlayer in February, promising a blend of comedy and relatable drama.
Tanya Qureshi, Head of Comedy at the BBC, has also expressed her excitement, stating, “Amandaland promises a fresh and engaging perspective on modern life and the challenges faced by a woman like Amanda in her new surroundings. The mix of comedy and poignant moments makes it a must-watch for viewers.” Horgan’s insight into the show’s creation and its connection to the original series adds a layer of authenticity to the new series, making it a highly anticipated return for fans of the Motherland franchise.
Shetland Season 10
New Cast Members

Shetland, the critically acclaimed BBC crime drama, is set to return later this year with a new season, featuring a mix of returning and new cast members. Season 10 will see the return of Ashley Jensen as DI Ruth Calder and Alison O’Donnell as DI ‘Tosh’ MacIntosh, with the production team revealing that filming has begun on location in Scotland and the Shetland Isles.
Season 10 will introduce several new faces, including:
- Samuel Anderson, known for his role in Gavin and Stacey, will join the cast in a recurring role as Procurator Fiscal Matt Blake.
- Clive Russell, best known for his roles in The Witcher and Game of Thrones, will make an appearance, adding a touch of mystery and intrigue.
- Greg McHugh, who gained recognition for his role in Fresh Meat, will also join the cast, bringing his unique talent to the series.
- Ellie Haddington, with her performance in Motherland, will add another layer to the plot, further enriching the narrative.
- Niall MacGregor, who played Richard Akers in Line of Duty, will make a guest appearance, bringing with him the intensity and depth that has become a hallmark of his performances.
- Stephen McMillan, known for his role in Netflix’s Toxic Town, will be bringing his unique flair to the series.
The new season of Shetland will focus on the sinister murder of a retired social worker, found in the isolated hamlet of Lunniswick. The case, which sees DI Ruth Calder and DI Tosh MacIntosh uncovering dark secrets and terrible deeds, promises to be as gripping as its predecessors. The new characters will add a new dynamic to the existing team, enriching the plot with fresh perspectives and challenges.
Season 10 will also see the return of longtime characters such as DC Sandy Wilson, played by Steven Robertson, Sgt Billy McCabe, portrayed by Lewis Howden, pathologist Cora McLean, played by Anne Kidd, Donnie, Tosh’s partner, portrayed by Angus Miller, and PC Alex Grant, played by Conor McCarry, as well as PC Lorna Burns, portrayed by Eubha Akilade. The new cast members will provide a fresh perspective that will invigorate the series, promising a season filled with suspense and intrigue that is characteristic of the Shetland brand.
Shetland seasons 1-9 are currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer, providing a perfect opportunity for new viewers to catch up with the series’ rich narrative and complex characters. With filming continuing over the coming months, fans can look forward to a new season of Shetland, which is slated for release on BBC One later this year. The addition of the previously mentioned cast members and the intriguing plot points promise an engaging and entertaining watch.
Gavin and Stacey Star Joins New Shetland Cast – BBC

Gavin and Stacey’s Samuel Anderson has joined the cast of Shetland as Procurator Fiscal Matt Blake, alongside other new cast members including Clive Russell, Greg McHugh, Ellie Haddington, and Niall MacGregor.

Plot and Premise
The new season of Shetland centers on the sinister killing of an elderly woman in the isolated hamlet of Lunniswick. DI Ruth Calder and DC Tosh MacIntosh must excavate the victim’s life and uncover dark secrets in the close-knit community.

Returning Cast and Crew
Reprising their roles are Steven Robertson, Lewis Howden, Anne Kidd, Angus Miller, Conor McCarry, and Eubha Akilade. Filming is underway, with a return to screens later this year.
Gavin and Stacey Finale
Plot and Premise
The final episode picks up five years after the events of the 2019 finale, with Nessa proposing to Smithy. The story follows the Shipman and West families as they navigate new challenges and relationships.

Cast and Characters
Returning characters include James Corden, Ruth Jones, Joanna Page, Mathew Horne, Alison Steadman, and Larry Lamb. New characters and plotlines have been revealed.
Release Date and Time
The Gavin and Stacey finale airs on Christmas Day at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Conclusion
As the BBC continues to shape the future of British television, the recent casting news of Gavin and Stacey star, Joanna Page, joining the cast of Shetland has sent shockwaves through the industry. This development marks a significant shift in the series’ tone and direction, with many speculating about the potential impact on the show’s intricate narrative. The news has sparked a flurry of discussions among fans and critics alike, pondering the implications of this new addition on the series’ atmosphere and character dynamics.
The significance of Joanna Page’s casting cannot be overstated, as her presence is likely to bring a fresh perspective to the series. As a seasoned actress with a proven track record, she is poised to make a lasting impression on the show’s audience. With her addition, Shetland’s creators have demonstrated a willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of the series, paving the way for a potentially game-changing storyline. As the series continues to captivate viewers, Joanna Page’s involvement is set to breathe new life into the narrative, shattering expectations and redefining the show’s trajectory.
As Shetland gears up for its next season, the addition of Joanna Page is a harbinger of exciting times ahead. With her talent and experience, she is poised to elevate the series to unprecedented heights, captivating audiences and redefining the fabric of British television. As we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Shetland’s story, one thing is certain – the future of the series is brighter than ever, and Joanna Page’s presence is set to leave an indelible mark on the television landscape. The question on everyone’s lips is: what’s next for Shetland, and how will Joanna Page’s arrival shape the series’ future?