Beyond Paradise viewers have expressed frustration over Chief Superintendent James Smith's corporate jargon, with many calling for the character to be written out of the BBC drama. During Friday's episode, Smith's management speak prompted a wave of complaints on social media.
One viewer shared a baffled GIF on X, writing: 'The UK when Chief Superintendent Smith is talking his business jargon #BeyondParadise.' Another raged: 'Can Mr Smith get in the bin!?' A third suggested: 'How about Mr Smith commit a murder in the finale so he can get arrested?'
The BBC itself poked fun at the character before the episode aired, sharing a bingo card of his favourite phrases on social media with the caption: 'Advance warning: James Smith is in this episode, so we made you a handy little guide to understanding corporate jargon, in case it helps... #BeyondParadise.'
Portrayed by Vincent Franklin, Smith returned to screens having first appeared in episode one. He immediately cast himself as the villain by announcing staff cutbacks. Meanwhile, the episode's plot involved a Dark Morris Dancing event where a performer collapsed from a severe allergic reaction, with an empty EPI-PEN case leaving DI Humphrey Goodman baffled.
As secrets emerged, Margo Martins went undercover to uncover clues. Elsewhere, DS Esther Williams was left reeling when Zoe announced her intention to travel the world.
