On April 13, 2025, France 3 is set to captivate audiences with the premiere of its new mystery series, Mystères au paradis, airing at 21h05. This show serves as a highly anticipated spin-off of the beloved Meurtres au paradis, which has long been a staple of French television. The new series transports viewers from the sunny Caribbean backdrop of its predecessor to the quaint, fictional village of Shipton Abbott in Devon, England. Here, the familiar character of Inspector Humphrey Goodman, portrayed by Kris Marshall, returns to solve peculiar cases while navigating his new life with fiancée Martha.
The first episode, titled La mégère Wheaton, introduces us to Humphrey as he attempts to settle into his new surroundings. Alongside Martha, who aspires to open a restaurant, Humphrey takes on his role with the local police force, where he is joined by a colorful team including Sergeant Esther Williams, Agent Kelby Hartford, and Secretary Margo Martins. Their first case presents an unusual challenge: a woman claims she was pushed down the stairs by a witch who was executed 400 years ago, raising both eyebrows and questions about the paranormal.
As the series unfolds, it promises to blend humor with mystery in a way that echoes the charm of its predecessor. The creators, Robert Thorogood and Tony Jordan, have crafted a narrative that maintains the essence of Meurtres au paradis while exploring new dynamics and settings. Diederick Santer, the creative director at BritBox, expressed the intent behind this spin-off, stating, "Réaliser un spin-off de Meurtres au Paradis était une évidence. La familiarité est essentielle..." ("Creating a spin-off of Meurtres au Paradis was obvious. Familiarity is essential...").
In the premiere episode, viewers will witness Humphrey's struggles to adapt to his new environment, including living temporarily with Martha's mother, Anne. The quaint village of Shipton Abbott, while picturesque, harbors secrets that complicate Humphrey's investigations. The series promises to deliver six episodes filled with quirky mysteries, ranging from a family's inexplicable disappearance during dinner to bizarre occurrences that defy logic.
As the show progresses, each episode presents a unique case for the team to solve, showcasing their investigative skills while also highlighting the interpersonal dynamics within the group. The blend of comedy and crime drama is a hallmark of the series, ensuring that viewers remain engaged and entertained. The charming backdrop of Devon, with its rolling hills and idyllic scenery, serves as the perfect setting for this feel-good procedural.
In the second episode, titled Une famille disparaît, the team faces the perplexing situation of an entire family vanishing without a trace during a meal. With no signs of struggle or intrusion, the mystery deepens, prompting Humphrey to dig deeper into the seemingly tranquil lives of the villagers.
The series not only reintroduces familiar characters but also allows for the development of new relationships and tensions, particularly between Humphrey and Martha as they navigate their future together. The writing is described as sharp and witty, maintaining a balance between suspense and light-hearted moments that keep the audience engaged.
Critics and fans alike are eager to see how Mystères au paradis will evolve over its inaugural season. With a total of six episodes, the series aims to explore various themes, including the nature of belief, the impact of history on present-day events, and the complexities of human relationships. Each episode promises a mix of intrigue, humor, and the occasional twist that will keep viewers guessing.
Filmed in Looe, near Plymouth, the series captures the essence of rural England while crafting a fictional narrative that resonates with audiences. The picturesque scenery, combined with the engaging storylines, makes Mystères au paradis a delightful addition to the Sunday night viewing lineup.
As fans of Meurtres au paradis eagerly tune in, they can expect a fresh take on the beloved characters they have come to know and love. The series invites viewers to join Humphrey and his team as they unravel the mysteries hidden beneath the surface of Shipton Abbott, proving that even in the most idyllic settings, darkness can lurk just out of sight. With its blend of humor, charm, and clever storytelling, Mystères au paradis is poised to become a new favorite among mystery enthusiasts.
