The arrival of January and the dawn of a new year heralds the much-anticipated return of Silent Witness, now in its 28th series, which promises an overarching theme of love and introduces fresh faces to the cast.
First hitting our screens in 1996, this beloved show has captivated audiences with its gripping portrayal of a team of forensic pathology experts delving into a myriad of crimes. If you're up for a marathon viewing session before diving into the 28th series, all previous 27 instalments of Silent Witness are ready and waiting on .
Here's your guide to everything you need to know about the 28th series of Silent Witness.
When does Silent Witness air and how many episodes?Silent Witness makes its comeback on Monday, January 6 at 9pm on BBC One, boasting ten episodes split into five two-part narratives, each clocking in at an hour, reports .
The second episode is slated for Tuesday, January 7 at 9pm on BBC One. Each week's fresh tale will make its debut in full on BBC iPlayer from 6am every Monday, before its broadcast on BBC One on Mondays and Tuesdays at 9pm over a span of five weeks.
What's the storyline?The latest series kicks off with a chilling enigma as the team grapples with the murder of an elderly woman discovered in a cave, prompting questions about what could drive someone to kill such a defenceless individual. Viewers will also be introduced to two vibrant additions to the team - the new Head of The Lyell Centre, Harriet Maven portrayed by Maggie Steed, and crime analyst Kit Brooks brought to life by Francesca Mills.
Who's in the cast?Emilia Fox is returning in the role of Dr Nikki Alexander while David Caves is stepping back into the shoes of Jack Hodgson.
Maggie Steed is a newcomer to the series and the former star is playing Harriet Maven, the new Head of the Lyell Centre. Francesca Mills will be portraying crime analyst Kit Brooks.
There will also be a number of guest stars including Sean Pertwee as DI John Flynn (Episodes 1 and 2), Lisa Davina Phillip as Blessing (Episodes 1 and 2), Iman Marson as Ollie (Episodes 1 and 2), Jason Callender as Gary Baxter (Episodes 1 and 2), David Hargreaves as Benjamin Dawson (Episodes 1 and 2) and Amy Booth-Steel as PC Greenwood (Episodes 1 and 2).
Silent Witness returns to BBC One on Monday, January 6 at 9pm