Filming begins on series three of Beyond Paradise

Image: BBC Press

By Jon Donnis

Filming has begun for the much-anticipated third series of the hit crime drama Beyond Paradise, a show that has captivated audiences with its blend of mystery, charm, and heart. Co-commissioned with BritBox International and set to air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One, the new series promises to deliver more of the intricate puzzles and emotional depth that have made the series a favorite among viewers. Fans will be eager to reconnect with the beloved characters of Humphrey and Martha, whose near-marriage in the previous series left audiences on the edge of their seats. The couple's ongoing journey as foster parents will continue to tug at the heartstrings, adding a layer of personal stakes to the already compelling narrative.

The show, which recently won Best New Drama at the TV Choice Awards, remains one of the most-watched dramas in the UK, and the return of key cast members is sure to delight its loyal fanbase. Kris Marshall reprises his role as DI Humphrey Goodman, with Sally Bretton returning as Martha Lloyd, alongside Zahra Ahmadi as DS Esther Williams, Dylan Llewellyn as PC Kelby Hartford, Barbara Flynn as Anne Lloyd, Felicity Montagu as Margo Martins, Jade Harrison as CS Charlie Woods, and Melina Sinadinou as Zoe Williams. The series also welcomes back Jamie Bamber as the charismatic Archie Hughes, whose return to Shipton Abbott following his departure at the end of the first series adds an intriguing twist to the storyline.

Set against the picturesque landscapes of Devon and Cornwall, the third series will see the team tackling a host of challenging cases, from a mysterious body found in a river to a perplexing chocolate box poisoning, a long-standing farming feud, and a disturbing spiking incident on the water. These cases are set to push the Shipton Abbott team to their limits, offering viewers a rich tapestry of suspense and drama. But the intrigue doesn't stop at the crime scenes; the personal lives of the characters are just as gripping. Martha and Humphrey face unforeseen challenges in their fostering journey, while the reappearance of Martha's former flame, Archie, threatens to complicate their relationship. Meanwhile, Esther encounters a surprising twist in her personal life, Anne faces a health scare that brings up painful memories, and Kelby embarks on a path of personal growth that promises to add depth to his character.

Tim Key, Executive Producer at Red Planet Pictures, expressed his excitement about the new series, highlighting the joy of returning to the South West for what he believes will be the strongest season yet. He noted that the show's production team is thrilled by the audience's positive response and is particularly eager to reintroduce Jamie Bamber's character, Archie, to the mix. Created by Robert Thorogood and Tony Jordan, Beyond Paradise is a co-production between the BBC and BritBox International, produced by Red Planet Pictures, a company within the Asacha Media Group, which was recently acquired by Fremantle. The series' executive producers include Tony Jordan, Tim Key, and Belinda Campbell for Red Planet Pictures, Danielle Scott-Haughton for the BBC, and Robert Schildhouse and Stephen Nye for BritBox International, with Lindsay Hughes as producer. The show continues to enjoy international success, with the first two series selling to 135 territories worldwide. Fans can currently catch up on the first and second series of Beyond Paradise on iPlayer in the UK and on BritBox International in North America and the Nordic markets.