The Death in Paradise spin-off Return to Paradise returns to BBC One with a double bill on Friday, November 6, as Detective Sergeant Mackenzie Clarke (Anna Samson) faces new murder cases and personal turmoil in Dolphin Cove.
The six hour-long episodes will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from November 6, with the opening instalments broadcasting from 7.30pm until 9.25pm. Each episode will feature Australian guest stars including Robert Mammone and Bruce Spence.
What to expect in the opening episodes
Mackenzie is dealing with the departure of pathologist Glenn Strong (Tai Hara), which has left her struggling with guilt. Her rebellious mother Jillian (Kerry Armstrong) arrives, along with new pathologist Leo (Jacob Collins), adding further complications.
Mack and Senior Constable Colin Cartwright (Lloyd Griffith) investigate cases involving an artist stabbed in front of an audience, a wildlife worker killed inside a secured cage and a film director shot at her own screening.
The synopsis for the opening episode reads: "Resident wedding ruiner Mackenzie Clarke is paying the price for Glenn's absence. With Phil offside and a disastrous first impression made with new pathologist Leo, she's not winning any popularity contests in Dolphin Cove."
"So when an artist dies on stage in front of an audience during an avant-garde performance piece for the local art fair, Mackenzie is dismayed to find that their main suspect, the victim's muse, has a surprising and complicated connection to her."
Schedule changes and fan reaction
There will be no episode on November 13, as BBC One will broadcast Children in Need 2026 from 7pm until 10pm. Episodes are expected to return the following week, then continue weekly on Fridays.
Anna Samson said of her character's state at the start of the season: "The big pain for her is that Glenn has left Dolphin Cove and she feels hugely responsible. For the first time, she's not trying to run away from Dolphin Cove, she's sitting in a kind of self-inflicted punishment as a form of penance."
She added: "She's back in uniform; she's sitting it out hoping that Glenn will come back because she doesn't feel she can move forward without him. She's in a state of limbo."
Samson also said the introduction of Mack's mother offers insight into her character, explaining: "It offers a lot of insight into who Mack is, why she is the way she is, why she doesn't like Dolphin Cove, and particularly about the failed wedding to Glenn. Any more would spoil the surprises."
Fans have shared their excitement on X, formerly Twitter, with one writing: "Something on the BBC worth watching on Friday nights at last!" Another commented: "Omg yayyyy! ! Friday nights just haven't been the same." A third said: "Fabulous news. I can't wait."
Return to Paradise airs on BBC One on Fridays at 7.30pm.
