Fans of the acclaimed television series Austin are buzzing with excitement as Death in Paradise star Ben Miller confirms his return to the role of Julian Hartswood for the show's highly anticipated third season. The announcement, made via Instagram, revealed that the new season will premiere in 2026 on ABC iview and ABC TV, sparking a wave of enthusiastic responses from viewers.
Reprising a Complex Character
Ben Miller portrays Julian Hartswood, a celebrated author whose life unravels after he accidentally retweets a white supremacist post, devastating his career and reputation. The plot thickens when Austin, played by Michael Theo, enters the narrative as Julian's neurodivergent son, whom he never knew existed. This dynamic sets the stage for compelling family drama and personal redemption.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The Instagram post featuring Ben Miller and the cast quickly garnered attention, with fans flooding the comments section to express their delight. One fan exclaimed, "Cannot wait! Great show. Amazing writing," while another praised, "Love the show." A third added, "Congratulations, So EXCITED for Season 3," and others described Ben as "their favourite detective ever," highlighting his enduring popularity.
Ben Miller's Iconic Role in Death in Paradise
Ben Miller is best known for his role as Detective Richard Poole in the beloved BBC series Death in Paradise. His character was memorably killed off at the start of series three, with Kris Marshall taking over as Humphrey Goodman. Reflecting on his departure, Ben explained to Digital Spy that personal circumstances, including his wife's pregnancy and a recent divorce, led him to quit the show to focus on family. He said, "I've just got divorced, and I've finally met somebody, and now I'm on the other side of the world, and we're having a baby. That's a proper curveball to be on the end of. So I knew what I had to do to get my wife back - quit Death in Paradise."
Career Moves and Surprise Returns
Since leaving Death in Paradise, Ben Miller has taken on diverse roles, including in the ITV drama Professor T. He made a surprise return for the show's 10th anniversary special in a ghostly cameo, delighting long-time fans. His versatility as an actor continues to shine through in projects like Austin, where he brings depth to the character of Julian Hartswood.
What to Expect in Austin Season 3
The upcoming season promises to explore Julian's journey as he navigates the fallout from his social media mishap and builds a relationship with his newfound son, Austin. With its blend of drama, humor, and social commentary, the series has garnered a loyal following. Fans can catch up on the first two seasons on ABC iview ahead of the 2026 premiere.
As anticipation builds, the return of Ben Miller to a detective-like role in Austin underscores his lasting appeal in the entertainment industry. Viewers eagerly await more twists and emotional moments in this critically acclaimed show.
