Beyond Paradise Stars Detail 'Scandalous' Beach Scene in New Series
The highly anticipated new series of Beyond Paradise premieres this week, with stars Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton returning to their roles as DI Humphrey and Martha. The BBC spin-off from Death in Paradise transports viewers back to the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, where the couple faces marital challenges amidst a backdrop of stunning Cornish and Devonshire landscapes.
A Chilly and 'Scandalous' Sunrise Swim
In a revealing interview, Sally Bretton hinted at a particularly memorable scene in the opening episodes. "There's a rather scandalous scene where Martha and Humphrey go for a swim at Mothecombe Beach," she disclosed. "We filmed this at sunrise at the most beautiful beach, but oh my goodness, it was freezing!" This private beach in Plymouth, known for its Caribbean-like appearance when the sun shines, has previously featured in other BBC productions, including Dawn French's The Trouble With Maggie Cole.
Kris Marshall echoed his co-star's sentiments, praising the location as a standout for the series. "As always, we got to film in some stunning locations, especially Mothecombe Beach," he shared. "You can only get down there by foot or in a 4x4, and when the sun is out, it feels like you're in the Caribbean. Sally and I had a brilliant scene there - it was at sunrise, and it was freezing, but so beautiful. I even got to have a dip in the sea!"
Marital Struggles and Peculiar Cases
The new series kicks off with Humphrey and Martha stranded at sea after their houseboat, the Lily Bond, drifts adrift. This incident leads to them temporarily residing with Martha's mother, Anne, played by Barbara Flynn, as their home undergoes repairs. Despite these less-than-ideal conditions, the couple navigates their difficulties against the picturesque settings of Cornwall and Devon.
Beyond the personal dramas, the Shipton Abbott team tackles a series of "mind-boggling" cases, including:
- The death of a crime novelist
- An intruder returning to rectify a past crime
- A witness claiming a mermaid wrecked a local seaweed farm
- An off-grid community using the image of the Green Man to fight developers
- A Morris dancer targeted in plain sight
- A stolen pirate map reappearing under mysterious circumstances
Supporting Characters and New Developments
The series also delves into the lives of other key characters. Anne rises to new heights as a local councillor, Esther grapples with the consequences of her past choices, and Zoe plans her next steps. Additionally, Kelby's dating life takes an unexpected turn when he meets someone online, though Margo spots warning signs that all may not be as it seems.
Humphrey faces mounting pressure when tasked with an impossible decision that will change his team forever, adding to the suspense and drama of the new episodes.
Premiere Details and Filming Locations
The fourth series of Beyond Paradise airs on BBC One from Friday, 27 March, at 8pm. Devon locals may recognize Mothecombe Beach, which features prominently in the series, showcasing the region's natural beauty and serving as a key filming location for the production crew.
With its blend of quirky mysteries, personal storylines, and breathtaking scenery, the new series promises to captivate audiences and continue the legacy of this beloved BBC drama.
