Kris Marshall, the star of the hit series Beyond Paradise, has opened up about how the stunning landscapes of Devon and Cornwall positively impact his mental health. At 52, the actor, known for his role as DI Humphrey Goodman in both Death in Paradise and its spin-off, Beyond Paradise, expressed his joy at returning to the West Country, a place he fondly considers home after growing up in Bath.
Marshall shared that he spent an "enormous amount of time" in Devon and Cornwall during his youth, indulging in both living and surfing along the picturesque coastlines. While he appreciates the natural beauty of the region, he also acknowledges the "huge pockets of deprivation" that linger due to the decline of the mining industry and fisheries.
In an interview with Principle Magazine last year, he revealed how being based in Devon and Cornwall helps him cope with the demanding filming schedule that can stretch to 70-hour weeks. He particularly enjoys the West Country moors and the seaside. "I am and always have been a really big water person. I was a big surfer growing up. I wasn’t particularly good, but I loved it. I did it all over the world for fun. I love the sea. So every morning before work, I’m in the sea. I’m in the sea after work. I go hiking up on the Moors," he said.
Marshall emphasizes the importance of the great outdoors for mental health, stating, "When you’re on a big shoot like Beyond Paradise, which is 70 hours a week for 23 weeks straight, one after the other, while it looks and is bucolic and lovely, it’s also quite hard work. I use Devon and Cornwall to keep my mental health stable." His commitment to the region's natural beauty is evident as he often seeks solace by the water.
The filming of Beyond Paradise takes place primarily in the scenic Cornish town of Looe, despite the narrative being set in the fictional Shipton Abbott near Devon's coastline. The University of Plymouth's Portland Square and Nancy Astor buildings also serve as the backdrop for the South West Police Headquarters.
In a separate interview with Best Magazine, he elaborated on his affinity for the coast, saying, "I’m a big fan of getting my 'vitamin sea.' Whether it's surfing or swimming, being by the water makes me happy." He mentioned Rame Head as one of his favorite filming locations, noting its stunning views and an intriguing abandoned military site. "It’s a great spot for filming, and after work, you can head down to a secret cove for a swim," he added.
The decision to film in South East Cornwall, despite the Devon setting, was influenced by its quieter nature during the peak tourist season. The Tamar Valley and Looe are conveniently located near Plymouth, the A30, and the A38, facilitating access for the production's convoy of location trucks.
As Beyond Paradise continues its third series, viewers can look forward to its return to BBC One at 8 PM tonight, April 18, 2025. The show has captivated audiences not only with its intriguing mysteries and sharp dialogue but also with its breathtaking filming locations.
The cast members have also shared their favorite spots in the South West. Jamie Bamber, who plays Archie Hughes, reminisced about his childhood in Cornwall, saying, "The first time I visited Cornwall it was for my 13th birthday and I read Jamaica Inn by Daphne du Maurier there. The romance of Cornwall has never left me." He expressed excitement about revisiting Looe and discovering Polperro, where he enjoyed running and walking along the cliffs.
Dylan Llewellyn, who portrays PC Kelby Hartford, expressed his fondness for Looe, calling it a lovely spot with accommodating locals. "There’s just something about filming in such beautiful parts of Devon and Cornwall that makes it all feel even more special," he said.
Zahra Ahmadi, who plays DS Esther Williams, found it challenging to pick a favorite filming location due to the area's beauty. However, she highlighted Charlestown as a standout spot where they stayed at a lovely hotel nearby in St. Austell. She also mentioned Looe, saying, "We’re well established there now and really well supported. I love that people can come and watch us film in those places. It’s nice to have a live audience sometimes."
Ahmadi further reflected on the unique environment of filming in such beautiful locations, noting how it enhances the experience for the cast. "Kris and I often reflect on how lucky we are to work in such stunning locations. Even when the terrain is tricky or the weather isn’t great, you can’t help but feel grateful," she concluded.
As fans eagerly await the next episode, the blend of captivating storytelling and the breathtaking backdrop of Devon and Cornwall continues to draw viewers in, making Beyond Paradise a standout series on BBC One.
