TheDeath in Paradisefranchise has captivated audiences with its unique blend of tropical backdrops, gripping mysteries, and engaging characters.What started as a single show has expanded into a universethat explores various facets of detective work across different locales. From the beloved original show,the fictional Saint Marie seriesDeath in Paradise, to the intriguing spin-off Beyond Paradise, which follows the beloved Detective Humphrey Goodman’s journey to a quieter life in the English countryside, to the new Return to Paradise set in Australia, each series offers a fresh twist on crime-solving.
WhileDeath in Paradiseand its four incredible detectivesbring a classic whodunit feel with a unique, sun-soaked Caribbean charm,Beyond Paradiseshifts the scene to the fictional Shipton Abbot, England. Meanwhile, the just-debutedReturn to Paradiseintroduces viewers to new characters in the fictional town Dolphin Cove. Together, these series expand on the themes of justice, community, and resilience,yet each captures the magic of a mystery show in its own way.
A Hilarious And Laid-Back Murder Mystery Show With Some Of TV’s Most Charming Characters
The original series,Death in Paradise, premiered in 2011 and quickly became a staple in the detective drama genre, as well as one of the most streamed shows around the world. Set on the fictional island of Saint Marie in the Caribbean, the series followsa rotating cast of British detectivesassigned to work alongside local police in solving murders. Each detective brings a unique approach to crime-solving, each providing uniquely hilarious humor, as they adapt to Saint Marie’s laid-back culture and sunny, picturesque setting that contrast each of their roots in London.
What setsDeath in Paradiseapart isn’t necessarily its commitment to the classic msytery formula, even though its cases are cleverly plotted with intricate clues, red herrings, and a memorable reveal in the final act of each episode. Instead, it’s biggest draw is its exploration of cultural differences,as each detective grapples with the quirks and challenges of island life.
The main characters change every few seasons, with each new detective offering fresh chemistry with the local team, including characters like the legendary Officer Dwayne Myers, the feisty DI Camille Bordey, and the elusive Commissioner Selwyn Patterson. The series has now spanned over a decade, withDeath in Paradiseseason 14 coming very soon.Death in Paradiseremains beloved for capturing the heart of detective work with a charming, tropical twist that keeps audiences returning season after season.
2Beyond Paradise
A More Traditional British Detective Show With A Realistic Love Story At Its Core
In 2023,Beyond Paradisewas introduced as a spin-off toDeath in Paradise, taking the story of the beloved DI Humphrey Goodman and placing him in a new environment: the quiet, picturesque (and fictional) town ofShipton Abbott in Devon, England.WhileDeath in Paradisethrives on its tropical setting and traditional mystery formula,Beyond Paradisetakes a more grounded, intimate approach to detective work, focusing on smaller, character-driven cases that reflect everyday life in a quaint English town. WhileDeath in Paradisecenters on the ever-changing island of Saint Marie as its main character,Beyond Paradiseis very much Humphrey and Martha’s story.
WhileDeath in Paradisecenters on the ever-changing island of Saint Marie as its main character,Beyond Paradiseis very much Humphrey and Martha’s story.
Humphrey’s transition from Saint Marie to Devon brings with it a different pace and tone. Rather than dealing with high-stakes murders and intricate crimes,Beyond Paradiseoften explores crimes rooted in community conflicts, family dramas, and personal grievances. This shift in focus allows for a more personal exploration of Humphrey’s character interacting with the community as he attempts to balance his professional responsibilities with his relationship with his fiancée, Martha Lloyd, a Devon native. It also allows for more variety in cases, as death can only happen in so many ways. This variety may just be the show’s strongest element.
3Return to Paradise
A Happy Medium Between Its Two Predecessors
Return to Paradise, the latest addition to theDeath in Paradiseuniverse, strikes a perfect balance between the crime-solving fun of the original series and the more introspective, relationship-focused storytelling seen inBeyond Paradise. Set against the stunning backdrop of fictional Dolphin Cove, Australia, this new spin-off serves up fresh mysteries and characters with the vibrant charm that has become a franchise hallmark. Dolphin Cove’s coastal, sun-soaked vibe brings a breezy, classicDeath in Paradisefeel, whilethe Australian setting adds a unique twist, offering new cultural quirks that keep the series feeling fresh.
How Kris Marshall’s Goodman Exited Death In Paradise
Kris Marshall’s character Humphrey Goodman was Death In Paradise’s longest-running detective but why did he leave the BBC murder mystery?
Return to Paradise’s approach feels like giving aBeyond Paradisestoryline to Richard Poole, mixing dramatic relationship dynamics with brilliantly proper crime-solving.
With its blend of mystery, personal drama, and cultural exploration,Return to Paradiseisa spin-off that feels right at homein theDeath in Paradiseuniverse while offering something new. The show’s knack for intriguing cases and quirky characters, set against a bright and beautiful landscape, makes ita must-watch for franchise fans. Whether audiences are drawn to the layered storytelling or simply the sun-drenched mysteries,Return to Paradisedelivers a fresh yet familiar addition to one of TV’s most beloved crime series franchises,Death in Paradise.
Death In Paradise
Cast
Set on the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie, this series follows a British detective who is assigned to investigate murders on the island. Despite his dislike for the sun, sea, and sand, the detective is brilliant at his job, solving complex cases with clever deductions. Each episode is presented as a new case to solve, with a new local at the center.
