The ninth season of BBC's crime drama 'Shetland' premiered with a dramatic opening that left fans both captivated and confused. The episode featured DI Ruth Calder, portrayed by Ashley Jensen, confronting a nervous Malcolm Kidd, played by Stuart Campbell, who was holding a shotgun and demanding to see Eleanor Douglas, revealing a bloody crime scene with his brother's body on the ground. While some viewers praised the intense start, others expressed disappointment over the absence of former lead character DI Jimmy Perez, played by Douglas Henshall, who left the series after nearly a decade. Critics have noted that the episode successfully maintained the show's gripping narrative style while showcasing the complexities of rural life. Despite mixed reactions, many fans celebrated the return of the series, dubbing it 'gripping' and 'excellent'. The episode also hinted at ongoing personal dramas among the characters, further engaging the audience.