Return to Paradise starts production, promising a fresh take on the acclaimed series with stunning Australian landscapes and gripping plots.
ABC TV has commenced production of Return to Paradise, a new Australian spin-off from the internationally acclaimed Death in Paradise series.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Sydney and the picturesque Illawarra coast, this six-part series promises a unique Australian twist on the beloved murder mystery genre, paying tribute to the original series’ universe, often referred to as the ‘Paraverse’.
The series, a collaboration between BBC Studios Productions Australia and Red Planet Pictures for the ABC and in partnership with the BBC, marks a significant addition to Australia’s television landscape.
Anna Samson, known for her roles in Dead Lucky, Wake in Fright, and Jack Irish, leads the cast as Mackenzie Clarke, the franchise’s inaugural female lead detective. She is joined by a stellar ensemble including Lloyd Griffith (Ted Lasso, Nolly), Tai Hara (Home & Away, Colin From Accounts), Catherine McClements (Total Control, Ms Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries), Celia Ireland (Wentworth, Total Control), Andrea Demetriades (Mother and Son, The Artful Dodger), and Aaron McGrath (Gold Diggers, Preppers).
The narrative follows DI Mackenzie Clarke, an Australian detective with a notable record in London, who finds herself back in her hometown, Dolphin Cove, under less than ideal circumstances. Despite her initial reluctance and a cold welcome, Clarke’s knack for solving complex murder cases becomes her path to redemption and acceptance in her community and amongst her colleagues.
“I’m beyond excited to welcome Producer Di Haddon and our two fabulous directors Mat King and Tenika Smith who are coming together with our amazing cast to bring the world of Return to Paradise to life.
We are having so much fun creating this brand-new mystery series that brings an Australian twist to one of the globe’s most successful television franchises.
We think audiences in Australia, UK and around the world are going to fall in love with our wonderful characters, our delicious whodunits, and our gorgeous coastal Australian locations.”
expressed Peter Mattessi, Co-Creator and Executive Producer.
Return to Paradise is scheduled to premiere on ABC and ABC iview later this year, with broadcasts on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK. BBC Studios will handle global distribution.
Fans of the genre can continue to enjoy Death in Paradise Season 12, currently available on ABC iview, while awaiting the release of Return to Paradise.
Production Credits: Produced by BBC Studios Productions Australia, Red Planet Pictures. Created and Executive Produced by Peter Mattessi, James Hall and Robert Thorogood. Producer: Di Haddon. Executive Producers for BBC Studios Productions Australia are Kylie Washington and Warren Clarke, for Red Planet Pictures are Belinda Campbell and Tim Key, and for ABC are Rachel Okine and Brett Sleigh.
