'Utterly addictive' murder mystery that Shetland fans will love

Fans of BBC's Shetland may want to add The Sommerdahl Murders to their watchlist.

The Danish crime drama which has been described as "utterly addictive" unfolds against the stunning coastline of eastern Denmark, where detective Dan Sommerdahl, played by Peter Mygind, investigates a string of chilling murder cases.

Now in its sixth season in Denmark, the series has built a loyal following at home. UK viewers, meanwhile, can catch up with the first two seasons through Walter Presents on Channel 4. While the breathtaking scenery is a major draw, it's the gripping mysteries and compelling characters that keep audiences coming back for more.

If you're thinking of diving in, here's everything you need to know about the show, from its plot and cast to where you can watch it.

The story focuses on DCI Dan Sommerdahl who dedicates his days to unraveling grisly murder cases in Elsinore, a fictional version of Denmark's coastal town of Helsingør.

But while he excels at solving crimes, his personal life proves far more difficult to untangle, leaving him juggling professional pressures with private turmoil.

Dan is married to Marianne Sommerdahl, a forensic technician working within the police department. However, their relationship is complicated by the fact that Marianne is secretly involved with Dan's closest friend and policing partner, Flemming Torp. The affair creates a tense and emotional love triangle that unfolds alongside the show's criminal investigations.

First premiering in Denmark in 2020, The Sommerdahl Murders quickly became a ratings success and remains a popular fixture on Danish television. The drama is based on the Dan Sommerdahl crime novels by Anna Grue, one of Denmark's most celebrated crime writers. While the book series has attracted a large readership in its home country, it has not yet been translated into English. The show's sixth season is set to air in Denmark later this year.

Leading the cast is Peter Mygind as DCI Dan Sommerdahl, an actor well known to Nordic drama fans for his roles in Borgen and The Kingdom. Laura Drasbæk stars as Dan's wife, Marianne Sommerdahl, having previously appeared in the acclaimed crime film Pusher.

Completing the central trio is André Babikian as Flemming Torp, Dan's colleague and best friend, whom viewers may recognise from the 2022 season of Borgen.

Fans of the show have loved the portrayal of the characters and have left favourable reviews. One online user wrote on IMDB: "This was my first Danish mystery. I loved every last second of the two seasons." While another added: "Well written and all the actors give a fine performance."

The Sommerdahl Murders is available to watch on More 4