Why isn’t Silent Witness on today? BBC schedule change explained and when it is back

Silent Witness fans who sit down this evening expecting the start of the team’s latest case are in for a rude surprise. Viewers will be taken on a trip to the tropical sunshine of Saint Marie instead, it has been confirmed.

The BBC has been forced into a schedule shake-up this evening (February 16) and it could easily catch audiences out. Death in Paradise will make a shock Monday night appearance - after being displaced itself last week.

But when can viewers expect the Sir William Bowman Centre of Excellence team to return? Here’s all you need to know:

Why isn’t Silent Witness on TV today?

The long-running crime drama is now in its 29th season on the BBC. Having made its bow back in the 1990s, it has become a firm fixture in the yearly TV calendar.

Silent Witness is usually on BBC One on Monday and Tuesday nights. However, it will not broadcast an episode this evening (February 16) as viewers might have expected.

The show has been bounced out of its regular 9pm spot by Death in Paradise, which was originally due to air on Friday (February 13). Due to the BBC having live coverage of the FA Cup fourth round, it has led to a big shake-up.

As a result, Death in Paradise is airing tonight instead - with a second episode on Friday (February 20). Fortunately, Silent Witness fans will not have to wait too long for the show’s return.

When is Silent Witness on TV this week?

Despite being bumped from its regular Monday night slot, the show will still be broadcast this week. It is set to air the next two episodes back-to-back tomorrow (February 17) and on Wednesday (February 18).

Silent Witness will start at 9pm on both days, it has been confirmed. This week’s episodes are already on iPlayer, for those who can’t wait.

The latest case is dubbed ‘The Enemy Within’ and the synopsis for part one teases: “Nikki and Jack find themselves in the middle of a deadly racial divide.”