A Shetland star has confessed that he "probably scarred" a co-star for life during an awkward moment in the '90s, whilst discussing what lies ahead for the BBC drama. In a recent chat, Lewis Howden, who portrays Sgt Billy McCabe in the hit mystery programme, has made an admission about a fellow Shetland cast member, whom he referred to as a "poor woman" following the episode.

Lewis made his return this month for the 10th series of Shetland, named after the isolated Scottish islands, alongside other recognisable faces including Alison O'Donnell (who plays Alison 'Tosh' McIntosh) and Steven Robertson (Sandy Wilson). However, it appears he shares a long-standing connection with one particular cast member that stretches back years. In fact, it predates Shetland by "decades" and featured an awkward-sounding moment involving a "bath on stage".

After being told that co-star Ashley Jensen, who plays DI Ruth Calder, had revealed they once appeared together as husband and wife in a theatrical production, a magazine enquired whether it was "nice" to reunite professionally.

In an unexpected confession about their shared history, Lewis told TV Times: "That's right; the poor woman had to give me a bath on stage! It's probably scarred her forever, but luckily, she still talks to me!

"We hadn't worked together in decades, and then suddenly, we were both in Shetland, which was great. It's always thrilling being in scenes with her."

Lewis also reflected on some of his most cherished roles throughout his career, explaining that he enrolled in drama college "purely" for stage acting, so many of his favourites have naturally been theatre performances.

Nevertheless, he considers his portrayal of the BFG (one of beloved children's author Roald Dahl's creations) as "just as important" as playing Macbeth in William Shakespeare's iconic 'Scottish Play'.

Speaking about the future of Shetland, Lewis said: "Of course, when somebody asks you what your favourite part is, the actor-y thing to say is, 'The next one'. That might be Billy - I don't know yet if we're going again next year; that's above my pay grade."

Lewis has been involved with the programme since its debut in 2013, but this latest series marks a shift for him. Indeed, he's reportedly spent time filming on location, rather than the studio where he typically records his office sequences.

He told the BBC in October: "Much to my surprise and excitement I filmed a scene outside the police station in Lerwick back Season 4, which involved Billy having a wee tea break and had a chat with Perez as he was leaving.

"I had a great time, and it put an end to the teasing I got from everyone for being the one left behind in Glasgow while they're away on location!".

Lewis added that it had been "wonderful" to spend some time on the stunning Scottish isles, noting how the "teasing can finally stop".