Silent Witness Set to Mark Historic 30th Anniversary with Series 29 in 2026

Introduction: A Milestone for British Television

One of the BBC’s most enduring crime dramas is preparing for a landmark moment. Silent Witness is a British crime drama television series produced by the BBC that focuses on a team of forensic pathology experts and their investigations into various crimes. The show is set to celebrate 30 years on the air in 2026, making it one of the longest-running series in British television history. This longevity speaks to the programme’s sustained popularity and its ability to captivate audiences across generations.

Series 29: What We Know So Far

While no official release date has been announced for the new 29th season of Silent Witness, it is set to return in early 2026, much to the delight of the show’s fans. The BBC has confirmed that Silent Witness will return for its 29th series. Filming is expected to begin soon on the new series, with the show currently in pre-production in Birmingham. Following the traditional pattern, viewers can expect the series to premiere in January 2026.

Nikki and Jack will be back for another series of the long-running forensic drama. Lead stars Emilia Fox and David Caves are confirmed to reprise their roles as Dr Nikki Alexander and Jack Hodgson, alongside new cast members Maggie Steed and Francesca Mills.

A New Chapter in Birmingham

Series 29 marks a significant geographical shift for the programme. In 2023 it was announced that production for Silent Witness would be moving to Birmingham. This was reflected in the show at the end of Series 28, with Nikki accepting an offer to set up a new forensic centre in the city along with her team. Silent Witness has moved to the West Midlands as part of a plan by the BBC to boost TV drama production in the region.

The Secret to Longevity

What has kept Silent Witness relevant for nearly three decades? Actress Emilia Fox explained the show’s enduring appeal: “To look at solving crime with a lead female pathologist in a man’s world was inspired and original. Finding clues through the body was a new way of looking at crime solving, and it gave it a real humanity.” Since its initial release in 1996, 28 series have been broadcast.

Conclusion: Why This Matters for Viewers

The upcoming series represents more than just another season of television—it’s a testament to quality British drama that has adapted and thrived across three decades. For loyal fans, series 29 promises to deliver the forensic intrigue they’ve come to expect, now with the fresh perspective of a Birmingham setting. As the show celebrates this milestone anniversary, it continues to prove that thoughtful storytelling, strong characters, and innovative approaches to the crime genre never go out of style. Whether you’re a long-time viewer or new to the series, 2026 promises to be an exciting year for Silent Witness.