Silent Witness made its highly anticipated return on Monday night with the debut of its 25th-anniversary series. But while viewers were glad to have the crime drama back on their screens, they were left fearing for one beloved character.
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The new episode saw Amanda Burton's iconic Sam Ryan joining Emilia Fox's Nikki Alexander in the lab after the murder of health secretary Alice Reynolds, who was shot following a press conference held by a company founded by Sam.
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While fans were compelled by the intriguing plot that questions Sam's involvement in the case, they were left worried for the health of Jack Hodgson (David Caves), who complained of a headache during the series opener.
Viewers took to Twitter to express their concern, with one person writing: "Now then I must admit I'm a little concerned over our Jack's 'headaches', I hope it's not going to be something more serious," while another added: "I hope Jack isn't ill with his headaches etc."
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A third fan commented: "Am I the only one watching worried that Jack having a headache and mentioning it twice means he will have something horribly wrong with him by the end of this series?" while another suggested that he may have a serious condition: "I think Jack may have a brain tumour."
Fans were left worried for Jack's health
However, many fans were overjoyed with the return of the series and praised the return of Sam Ryan. One person tweeted: "I am almost sobbing, this feels like a crossover despite being the same show. Sam AND Nikki, being awesome TOGETHER," while another added: "So good to have Sam Ryan back on screen again in Silent Witness! What a dramatic way to start the series. Can't wait to watch more."
A third fan commented: "Phenomenal first episode!! I'm loving the chemistry between Jack and Nikki, the return of Sam, the friendship between Jack and Simone, and the cinematography. Can't wait for tomorrow's episode."
Viewers were glad to see the return of Sam Ryan
Other fans also took to Twitter after spotting former Vera actor David Leon, who is best known for playing DI Joe Ashworth in the ITV drama. One person wrote: "Good to see @David_J_Leon back on our screens tonight. Very distinguished with a touch of grey," while another added: "It's Joe from Vera. Gorgeous. #silentwitness."
Silent Witness continues on Tuesday 24 May at 9pm on BBC One.
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