Devoted viewers of the popular detective series Death in Paradise have erupted in anger following a sudden and disruptive schedule change announced by the BBC. The broadcaster confirmed that this week's highly anticipated episode will be postponed from its regular Friday evening slot, making way for live football coverage instead.
Immediate Backlash from Disappointed Viewers
The official Death in Paradise Instagram account delivered the unwelcome news to its followers, stating clearly, "Quick heads up: due to football, this week’s #DeathInParadise will be on BBC iPlayer this Friday, but it won't be on BBC One until Monday night!" This announcement triggered an immediate and passionate response from the show's dedicated fanbase, who swiftly flooded the comments section with complaints and expressions of frustration.
One exasperated fan questioned the decision outright, demanding, "No! Why can’t the football be moved?" Another viewer echoed this sentiment, arguing, "Not fair to move DIP for the football - Mervin can't watch football as he wasn't allowed to install a satellite dish outside the shack!" referencing a humorous element from the show's fictional setting.
Alternative Suggestions and Widespread Discontent
The discontent continued to spread as more fans voiced their opinions. A third commenter inquired, "Does that mean we will get two episodes that week?" while another stated bluntly, "Why should it change due to a football match? Makes me mad." Several viewers proposed practical alternatives, with one suggesting, "Why don't you put football on iPlayer and leave Death in Paradise alone?" and another advising, "Just put football on BBC2, 3, or 4 instead. This isn't a difficult decision."
Schedule Details and Football Match Particulars
Death in Paradise traditionally airs at 9pm every Friday on BBC One, providing a consistent weekly treat for its audience. However, this week's episode has been displaced by Match of the Day Live, which will occupy the prime-time slot. The football match in question is a fourth-round tie between Hull City and Chelsea, with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm at the MKM Stadium. The broadcast window runs from 7.30pm to 10pm, completely overlapping the show's usual time.
This particular fixture carries additional narrative weight, as it marks Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior's return to face Hull City, the club he led from November 2022 until May 2024. Rosenior will undoubtedly be pushing for a victory, aiming to secure Chelsea's first trophy since 2018. Conversely, Hull City, performing strongly under manager Sergej Jakirovic in the Championship this season, will be striving to deliver a significant upset against the Premier League side.
While the postponed Death in Paradise episode will be available for streaming on BBC iPlayer starting Friday, the linear television broadcast on BBC One has been rescheduled for Monday night, disrupting the viewing routines of countless fans. The series remains accessible on BBC iPlayer for those who prefer not to wait.
