Fans of the hit BBC drama Beyond Paradise have a festive treat in store, as the broadcaster has officially announced a Christmas special packed with surprises. The one-off episode will see a mysterious stranger arrive in the quaint town of Shipton Abbott, setting the stage for a heartwarming and puzzling holiday adventure.
A Festive Mystery Unfolds in Shipton Abbott
The special episode, scheduled to air on 21st December at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer, promises to deliver the perfect blend of cosy crime and character-driven drama. The plot kicks off when Esther, played by Zahra Ahmadi, discovers a disoriented man on the steps of the local police station. The man has lost his memory but is clutching a photograph of Detective Inspector Humphrey Goodman (Kris Marshall).
While the police team works to identify this enigmatic visitor and handle a flurry of seasonal cases, Martha Lloyd (Sally Bretton) is orchestrating a secret plan of her own. With help from her mother Anne and friend Zoe, and aided by a special mystery guest, Martha is racing to pull off a surprise. Meanwhile, Officer Kelby finds himself assisting a man who has become trapped inside a snowman costume.
Cast Secrets and a "Happy" Surprise
Actress Sally Bretton, who plays Martha, recently opened up about why audiences remain so invested in the relationship between her character and Humphrey. "I think because it's a real love match," she explained. "They are both kind-hearted by nature, and they genuinely want the best for each other... It's been a hard road for them, and they're finally in a happy spot." Bretton also confidently stated her ability to keep plot secrets, declaring herself "like a vault."
Fellow cast member Barbara Flynn (Anne) offered a tantalising hint about the upcoming surprise guest, suggesting viewers are in for a "happy" surprise. "It's lovely to keep a secret," Flynn said, "especially when it's a happy one."
Balancing Crime with Christmas Cheer
The synopsis for the hour-long special indicates a busy festive period for the Shipton Abbott force. With an influx of unexpected visitors and a slew of holiday crimes to solve, the team must juggle their professional duties with personal celebrations. The episode teases a life-changing reveal and a heartwarming reunion, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas is well and truly present amidst the mystery.
This special follows the conclusion of the show's third series, which saw the romance blossom between Archie (Jamie Bamber) and Esther. It continues the story that began in Death in Paradise, following the beloved characters Martha and Humphrey as they built a new life together in Devon.
