Popular BBC series announces epic return as show welcomes two new cast members

The popular BBC series Silent Witness is set for a thrilling comeback next year, with fans eager to welcome two fresh faces to the show.

Veteran actress Maggie Steed and newcomer Francesca Mills are gearing up to star alongside Emilia Fox's Dr Nikki Alexander and David Caves' Jack Hodgson in five new tales spanning ten gripping episodes.

Anticipation builds as the latest instalment of the forensics-centred drama opens with a haunting conundrum: the murder of a defenceless elderly woman in a cave sets off a harrowing investigation. The fresh season also heralds the arrival of two vibrant new characters to the forensic team.

Maggie expressed her excitement about the role, saying: "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, BBC 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!”

Since its 1996 debut, Silent Witness has captivated viewers with intense murder investigations and its enduring success can be attributed to creator and former homicide detective Nigel McCrery from Nottingham.

While traditionally filmed mainly in London, the series will witness a geographical shift as production moves to the West Midlands, promising a richer diversity of British accents in the narrative.

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.