Kris Marshall and the Beyond Paradise cast reveal their favourite filming locations for series three - "It's hard to pick because everywhere is so beautiful!"

BBC News

18-03-2025

We return to Shipton Abbott for a thrilling new series of the hugely successful crime drama Beyond Paradise. Packed with mystery, humour, and heart, we follow DI Humphrey Goodman and the team as they tackle more mind-boggling puzzles, all set against the breathtaking landscapes of Devon and Cornwall.
When a body is found in the river on the county border, Humphrey and Esther are thrown in the deep end, having to work alongside their Cornish counterparts. Things take a darker turn in the next case when Kelby's friend receives threatening messages from an unknown source. With further mysteries including a puzzling chocolate box poisoning, a historic farming feud, a spiking at sea, and a devilish kidnapping, there's plenty to keep the Shipton Abbott detectives on their toes.
Away from the police station, Humphrey and Martha continue their fostering journey but the arrival of 9-year-old Rosie brings more challenges than they anticipated. Elsewhere, an unexpected change in Esther's personal life takes her outside her comfort zone. But is she ready for something new and can she deal with it being public knowledge?
As Zoe continues to thrive in her role at the Ten Mile Kitchen, she makes a bold decision, but how will she tell Esther, and what will her reaction be? Meanwhile, Anne faces a health scare which brings back traumatic memories. Not wanting to burden Martha, she keeps it to herself until an unlikely friendship blossoms.
After discovering the Chief Superintendent has a new boyfriend, Kelby decides it's time to move on. On a mission to better himself personally and professionally, he enters the world of online dating with the help of Margo's expertise.
The highly anticipated third series will arrive on BBC iPlayer and BBC One from Friday 28 March 2025.
Watch Beyond Paradise on BBC iPlayer and add to your watchlist
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Interview with Kris Marshall (DI Humphrey Goodman)
Where do we find Humphrey at the start of this series?
Humphrey is in a very good place. He's well-settled in Shipton Abbott, both in his job and personal life. He's proud of his team and feels confident in his role. His relationship with Martha is great and the pair have fewer dramas than in the past. While there have been struggles in earlier series, this series shows a more comfortable, positive Humphrey who is thriving both professionally and personally.
How are Humphrey and Martha adapting to foster parenting?
By this point, Humphrey and Martha have had a few foster placements and are feeling more confident in their experience. However, each child is different, and Rosie brings her own set of challenges which they hadn't anticipated. As an emergency placement, Rosie is initially intended to be temporary, but they begin to form a deep bond with her which complicates things.
Can you tell us about some of the cases Humphrey and the team face this series? Did you have a favourite?
One of the standout cases is a kidnapping involving someone close to the police team, which unfolds later in the series (episode 6). The crime is particularly intricate and cleverly written and I was genuinely impressed by the complexity of it. I won't give away any spoilers but it's a fascinating case to solve and I'm intrigued to see if anyone can figure it out. I think people will be surprised, it's a real highlight of the series.
Martha finds herself involved in one of Humphrey's cases. How does he deal with it?
Humphrey doesn't take it well. In a small town, it's inevitable that people close to him will get caught up in cases. While he doesn't believe she's involved, he's still obligated to investigate every angle which puts a strain on their relationship. It's a tough situation for both of them - Martha is very busy and Humphrey struggles with the emotional toll it takes to see someone he loves potentially involved in something criminal. It adds extra complications to an already challenging investigation.
Archie returns this season. How does this affect Humphrey?
Humphrey doesn't feel threatened by Archie's return. He's always been a confident and emotionally strong person, and he's very secure in his relationship with Martha. In past series, his issues stemmed from Archie working so closely with Martha but this time, Humphrey isn't concerned. He's more bemused than anything else. He isn't losing sleep over it and is accepting of the situation.
What's it like working with Jamie Bamber?
Working with Jamie is fantastic. It's nice to have another actor of a similar age and experience on set, especially since we have both been in the industry since the 90s. While we didn't know each other well back then, we have a lot of mutual friends, and it's great to have someone around who shares that history. Jamie is a seasoned actor and a lovely person who brings a lot of fun to the set. We get along really well and it's always a pleasure working with him.
What are your favourite locations to film in Devon and Cornwall?
I absolutely love filming by the coast. I'm a big fan of getting my "vitamin sea" - whether it's surfing or swimming, being by the water makes me happy. One of my favourite filming locations is Rame Head in Cornwall. It offers stunning views and has a fascinating abandoned military site, complete with old tanks and artillery steps. It's a great spot for filming and after work you can head down to a secret cove for a swim. Another favourite is Mothecombe Beach, which is a secluded spot only accessible on foot. We sometimes film there at night, and the little bathing house on the rocks makes for a perfect green room. It's a cozy spot with a wood burner and is the perfect place to relax between takes. If we could do an episode that involves surfing, I'd love to head to the North Coast of Cornwall, where the surf is more consistent.
What can audiences look forward to this series?
This series offers the same great mix of intriguing crimes and compelling drama that viewers expect. What makes Beyond Paradise unique is its ability to be dramatic without being melodramatic. It's a light-hearted crime drama that tackles serious, relatable issues without getting overly heavy. Each episode is packed with content - there's a real sense of magic in how much is crammed into just one hour. It's thought-provoking and heartwarming without feeling overly sentimental. We don't take ourselves too seriously, and I think that's one of the show's greatest strengths. It's fun, it's touching, and it offers something for everyone. There's plenty to look forward to in this series and beyond.
Interview with Sally Bretton (Martha Lloyd)
Where do we find Martha at the beginning of the series?
At the start of the series, we find Martha and Humphrey still navigating their evolving understanding of family. They're very much in the middle of their fostering journey and Martha is also expanding her business. She's taken on a larger restaurant, which is really fulfilling some of her personal ambitions. They're still living in Anne's house, which has become a joke between myself and Barbara Flynn who plays her. Will they ever move out?!
Archie's back on the scene. How does this make Martha feel?
Martha's completely fine with Archie being around as long as Humphrey is okay with it. She likes him, but she's clear that their past is firmly in the past. There's mutual respect and closeness between them but absolutely no romance. It's all very platonic. Working with Jamie (Bamber) is always a joy. He's such a talented actor and I love doing scenes with him. He brings so much to the table, so it's always fun to share those moments on screen.
How do Martha and Humphrey adapt to being foster parents? Is it everything they dreamed it would be?
The balancing act is challenging. On paper, Martha was supposed to be the primary carer, especially with Humphrey's work commitments, but she ends up taking on a lot more than expected. She is managing her business, looking after Rosie, and trying to keep everything in order - it's a lot. But despite the struggles, they both fall in love with Rosie, and it becomes a deeply rewarding experience for them. They go through a whole range of emotions but in the end it's something they'll always look back on as a very special chapter in their lives.
Martha has a new venue for the 10 Mile Kitchen this series. What was it like filming there?
It was lovely! The new location is right in the heart of Shipton Abbott with stunning views over the harbour. It's so picturesque and filming there made it even more special. The new space is bigger than the café which gives it a slightly more refined, restaurant-like vibe. It's still got that cozy, welcoming feel but it is clear that Martha's business is growing and evolving. It was great to be part of that transition.
Martha finds herself in the middle of one of Humphrey's cases this series. What can you tell us about that?
Martha is not exactly thrilled about being dragged into one of Humphrey's investigations, especially because she's already juggling so much. She is running a coffee van at a regatta, looking after Rosie, and suddenly finds herself being formally interviewed by Humphrey at the police station over a poisoning case. It's a bit much for her and, honestly, she's irritated by the whole thing. I remember reading the script for that scene and actually laughing out loud - Martha's frustration really came through. It's a fun and intense moment and you get to see a different side of her.
Is there a particular episode that stands out for you this series?
One moment that stands out is when Martha plans a party for Rosie (episode 5). She's really embracing the mothering role and using her skills to create a special memory for Rosie. It's a milestone moment for Rosie - starting school, making new friends - and Martha wants to make sure she feels loved and safe. It was a really touching moment for me as an actor and it felt so rewarding to bring that to life on screen.
What can audiences look forward to this series?
Audiences can expect more intriguing puzzles to solve, of course! But it's also about watching Martha and Humphrey continue to navigate their new life together, adjusting to the addition of a new family member. It's not always graceful but there's always love at the core of everything they do. The beautiful settings remain a highlight and the stories will take viewers on a journey - one that is both captivating and emotionally fulfilling.
Interview with Zahra Ahmadi (DS Esther Williams)
Where do we find Esther at the beginning of this series?
We find her really settled and in a good place. Her working relationship with Humphrey is well-established now and she's really enjoying working with him. She's gotten used to all his idiosyncrasies and has learned to either love or accept them. She's loving life, enjoying work, her colleagues, her social life and her daughter, Zoe, is becoming more independent which makes Esther feel really proud. It's giving her confidence that she's done a good job as a parent because it wasn't always easy raising Zoe on her own. I think she's in a good place, present in herself, and confident in her abilities as both a mother and in other aspects of her life.
And what about romance?
Esther is a very professional and private person. While she has an active social life with friends and hobbies, her love life is something she keeps very low-key. She's selective and doesn't openly discuss it, especially because of her job. Over the years love hasn't been her focus, though dating and companionship in the right amounts are something she's interested in, like most people.
At this point in the series, she's in such a good place that she's unknowingly giving off a different kind of energy - it's attracting a different kind of man than she's used to. She's hesitant at first because this person isn't someone she'd usually go for. But this new, more confident version of Esther thinks, 'OK, let's see where this goes.' Things end up going further than she initially expected, which creates some challenges and forces her to think seriously about the situation. It's not something she's allowed herself to get into since Zoe's dad, so it's been a long time coming.
Can you tell us about some of the cases the team face this series? Did you have a favourite?
The first episode involves a crime on the Devon-Cornwall border. It's fun because it addresses the age-old 'cream or jam first' debate! We see the Cornish equivalent of Humphrey and Esther, and there's a bit of rivalry between the teams as they figure out jurisdiction.
My favourite was episode five. I really enjoy the episodes that have a supernatural element to them and this one delves into local legend. Even Esther gets a bit spooked at points because it's such a hard case to explain before Humphrey solves the mystery! Special mention to Miles Sloman who wrote the episode. We did a writing course together and it was such a privilege to act out his words and bring his vision to life. He even came to set to watch us perform, which was really special.
Esther's relationship with her daughter is incredibly important to her. What can you tell us about how they're getting on this series? And what's it like working with Melina Sinadinou?
Esther and Zoe are getting on well. Their relationship as mother and daughter has always been strong but Zoe is now a fully-fledged adult. She's independent and Esther trusts her to navigate the world. That trust is mutual - Zoe trusts her mum to let her be independent. What's beautiful about their relationship in this series is that Zoe starts to take care of Esther emotionally. Esther is strong, tough and unflappable but she's also human, with emotions and vulnerabilities. We see Zoe stepping up and being there for her mum in a way we haven't before. In most series you only get to show certain sides of a character so I'm grateful for the storylines that allowed us to dive into this. It's a nice reminder that, in life, parenting isn't always one-sided. Sometimes, the child ends up taking care of the parent, no matter their age.
As for Melina, she's fantastic. She's unique, fearless and very comfortable in her own skin. It's tough joining an established series as a new graduate but she's held her own, even alongside experienced actors like Barbara, Felicity, and Kris. We've built a lot of trust in our on-screen relationship and I absolutely love working with her.
You always have a brilliant guest cast on Beyond Paradise. What can you tell us about the guest stars for this series?
Episode two was a real highlight in terms of guest stars, with amazing performances from young actors Kem Hassan, Abra Thompson and Joseph Ollman (episode 2). Abra and I went to the same drama school, though many years apart, and it was so lovely to work with a fellow Welsh College alumni. We had lots to catch up on and it felt special - maybe not quite a full-circle moment but still wonderful to collaborate and work together as graduates from different generations of the school. Joseph was also fantastic. While he didn't attend Welsh College, his brother did, so we had plenty of mutual friends and connections which made working with him feel very familiar and enjoyable. And then there was Kem - an incredibly impressive actor. He came to the profession slightly later in life and took it very seriously. I was so impressed with how dedicated he was and he was also just a joy to work with. All three of them were fantastic actors, which was brilliant for Kris and me because it gave us so much to work with when it came to the case. On top of that, we had a wonderful director for that episode, Leon Lopez, who brought pure joy to the set.
If you could choose anyone to guest star, who would it be?
It would be Chris McCausland. I thought he was amazing on Strictly and I recently watched his Christmas special with Lee Mack. He's a fantastic comedian, human being and actor. He'd be brilliant in an episode.
What are some of your favourite locations to film in Devon and Cornwall?
It's hard to pick because everywhere is so beautiful! Charlestown stands out. It's gorgeous and we stayed at a lovely hotel nearby in St. Austell. We even invited some of the staff who we'd got to know to set on their days off which was a lot of fun.
Of course, Looe is another favourite. 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. When you go to drama school, you train predominantly in theatre, but when you work in TV you don't always get that live element. So having people watch while we film in places like Looe is special.
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.
What can audiences expect from this series?
The crimes are darker and more sinister this series and there's a bit more malice than before. It's great to explore that darker side because even in beautiful places, like Devon and Cornwall, there's criminality and darkness.
Interview with Dylan Llewellyn (PC Kelby Hartford)
Where do we find Kelby at the start of the series?
We kick off with Kelby solving a mysterious case of missing sheep and then attending a wine party. He's hoping to have a chat with the Chief Superintendent but when he sees her with another guy his face drops. It's a tough moment for him as he starts to realise that his feelings for her might be one-sided. He's been like a smitten puppy around her but it's clear she's not reciprocating. So, this series marks a turning point for Kelby - he's starting to accept that maybe it's just puppy love and it's time to move on. He gets onto the dating apps, trying to find love, with a bit of help from the gang, especially Margo, who offers some amusing dating advice.
Alongside his personal journey, Kelby will also face some intriguing cases with the team. You'll see his relationships with old childhood crushes and the team's camaraderie continue to grow.
Kelby's decided to start online dating. How is he getting on, and what do you think he's looking for?
Kelby is on the dating apps now - he's looking for love, his soulmate. He sees all these people around him in relationships and yearns for that kind of connection. But he's definitely struggling with the dating world. It's pretty funny because he messes up some conversations which shows just how nervous and panicked he gets. He turns to Margo for help navigating the apps and, while he stumbles at first, once he gets comfortable, I think he'll find someone who's lucky to have him. It's a sweet journey for Kelby and it's fun to watch him grow in that area.
Kelby seems to be going from strength to strength as part of the Shipton Abbott police team.
Kelby has evolved, especially in terms of his confidence. He's always appreciated the praise from people like Humphrey and Margo but this season we really see him pushing himself to stand on his own two feet. He's determined to handle the cases, whether it's with the team or flying solo. Kelby's growth is evident – he's trusting himself more and stepping up, even in difficult situations. There are moments where he takes the lead, which surprises people, but I think viewers should expect that. He's got it in him and it's been exciting to watch him evolve into a more confident, independent character.
Can you tell us about some of your favourite cases the Shipton Abbott team faces this series?
This season is packed with some intriguing cases. Episode two stands out as it involves a childhood sweetheart of Kelby's falling victim to online abuse, which brings back some personal connections for him. The team face a variety of challenges and I think viewers will love how the cases intertwine with the characters' personal lives, especially Humphrey and Martha's ongoing story and, of course, Kelby and Margo's banter. It's the great balance of intense cases and lighter moments that are the heart of the show.
I also loved episode three when Kelby and Esther get to work together on a case. We had a scene interviewing a drug dealer and it was so much fun working alongside one of the team members in the field. I love the dynamic of being out of the station and interacting with the suspects. Kelby really comes into his own in a graveyard scene at night. It's a bit chilling but it was great fun to play. It's a side of Kelby you don't always see, showing a bit of vulnerability which was fun to explore.
Were there any particular locations that stood out to you in Devon and Cornwall?
Looe is always one of my favourite locations. It's such a lovely spot and the people there are so accommodating, always great sports when we're filming. There's just something about filming in such beautiful parts of Devon and Cornwall that makes it all feel even more special.
Interview with Felicity Montagu (Margo Martins)
Where do we find Margo at the start of the series?
Margo is still at the helm, running the Shipton Abbott police office. She tolerates Humphrey - she's fond of him but finds him unpredictable. She really admires him, his skill set and his eccentricity but she still can't get over the fact that he relies on scraps of paper to solve crimes. Margo likes to be in control, she prefers the steamship to just puff along steadily and get to its destination in the end.
Her relationship with Esther is interesting. They're becoming closer. Margo always wants Esther's daughter Zoe to be independent and fly free but Esther, understandably, is very protective of her.
Of course, Margo feels very motherly towards Kelby and their relationship grows a lot this series. There's this wonderful mix of bewilderment and fondness between them - they're very fond of each other but they don't always understand one another.
Can you tell us about any of the cases the team tackles this series?
We're very lucky with the first episode - there's a body found in the river and it's a great plot. It's very dramatic and fast-paced, keeping the audience on their toes right from the start. Hugh Dennis is terrific in it - it was such a coup to get him on board.
There's also the spiking incident at the Saltleigh Regatta in episode four. For that episode, they cast two young women to play the sailors and I thought they'd have to learn how to sail. But they turned out to be actual sailors - talented and absolutely charming. In that plot, Margo gets a bit more interaction with Humphrey and is involved more in the case. She's so quick to accuse people, it's just part of her personality. But this case also reveals how disloyal Margo can be. She's quite a big head and very self-righteous, but she wouldn't like it if the tables were turned on her. That's what I love about her character - she's so complicated. She tends to push everyone - Esther and Humphrey especially - into doing things. And in this case she compromises Humphrey's personal and professional life without having empathy for him. What's fascinating is that later on in the series, Margo ends up in a similar situation herself - and she's absolutely furious. That hypocrisy and lack of self-awareness are what make her such an interesting character to play.
And then there's the historic farm feud in episode five, which I think is great. Caroline Quentin guest stars in that one and she's amazing. She's almost unrecognizable and she's just fantastic in it.
Margo must keep a secret in this series. How does she handle that?
Margo loves to gossip, of course, but she does know when to button it. In this instance, I think half the reason she keeps quiet is that she's not entirely sure what's going on. She has an idea, but she doesn't have the full picture, so she's careful not to blow everything out of the water.
Did you have a favourite scene you filmed this series?
There are some lovely moments in the office. The office scenes can be quite intense when we're filming - it's boom, boom, boom, one scene after another, with a lot of pages to get through. But once we're in the flow, it's a lot of fun. The cast is wonderful to work with. Even under the pressure of time, they're always questioning and evolving their performances. There's no complacency, which is so refreshing. I'd hate to work with actors where I always knew what they were going to do next.
You've had some fantastic guest stars. If you could choose anyone to guest star, who would it be?
I worked with Michael Gambon once on Dad's Army. He was just genius - so naughty and so much fun. He would've been brilliant as a baddie in Beyond Paradise. He loved playing baddies. I could imagine him as some sort of lord of the manor.
He didn't always follow the rules but he was kind. Never cruel, just mischievous and so capable. He was intimidating because of how good he was but also so much fun. Kris Marshall is a bit like that too. He loves fun.
What can audiences expect from this series?
Clever plots with challenging puzzles, strong character-driven storylines with moments of heartbreak and humor and some fantastic guest stars. The show is beautifully shot and the characters remain eccentric and funny. Tony Jordan has created something very special and I think viewers are going to love it.
Interview with Barbara Flynn (Anne Lloyd)
Anne experiences a health scare this series. How does she react to it?
At the end of the previous series, Anne was in a very tender and vulnerable place. She had experienced a terrible betrayal and a profound loss of trust. In this new series, she's busy trying to move on with her life in a very focused and solitary way, throwing herself into tasks to keep going. Then, out of nowhere, a bombshell hits. It's a shock.
The issue is deeply private for her but it ends up intertwined with her charming relationship with Zoe. It's not exactly a grandmother-granddaughter relationship, but more of a unique, evolving friendship. Instead of confiding in Martha, who Anne feels reluctant to burden, Zoe manages to draw it out of her in her direct, youthful, clumsy, yet completely adorable way. Anne is, in a way, forced to take action because of Zoe's persistence. She likely would have done something eventually, but Zoe's involvement gives her a push to act sooner. This strengthens their friendship, consolidating the bond between them. However, it also creates a tension - Zoe wants Anne to share her concerns with everyone but Anne, being private and fearful, resists.
It's a beautifully crafted story, as the team always manages to create. They weave together relationships, emotional depth and moments of levity to create something that feels authentic and relatable. This is a story that could happen to any of us and that's the magic of the series - it touches on life's everyday challenges with such light and skill.
Anne also revisits some old emotions connected to losing her husband. How does she handle this?
Having lost her husband, the one person she could fully confide in, Anne feels isolated in handling such challenges. Martha is very busy with her restaurant changing premises, and Humphrey is always busy too, constantly rushing around, tripping up here and there, but somehow getting everything right in the end. Anne is very aware of how busy they both are and she's mindful not to burden them. Meanwhile, she is still living on the boat. Viewers often say to me, 'You must get your house back - it's terrible that they've put you on the boat!' But honestly, it's charming in its own way.
The loss of her husband, however, never goes away. Anyone who has experienced that kind of loss knows it lingers. They've handled this aspect of her character very well, it's subtle but poignant. Those feelings of loss come back - you never fully escape them. Anne no longer has that person she could sit with by the fire, by the sea, under the moonlight or by the lapping waves and say, 'Guess what happened? I went to the doctor,' or even, 'Should I go to the doctor?' Before doing anything, she would have told her husband. But she doesn't have that anymore. You feel the weight of her loss, but it's never overdone It's not 'over-egged.' Anne tries to stay composed and contained. Martha and Humphrey live so close yet they have their own lives so Anne must learn to handle things herself.
How has Anne and Martha's relationship evolved?
Anne often projects her focus onto Martha, like many mothers do. She's seen her daughter's struggles, from IVF to everything else, and she's proud of her. But Anne also feels Martha is slightly wary of her now, especially after everything that happened. Martha's also a bit alarmed by how Anne is behaving. Anne is doing a lot of things, being very "fritz-y" and a bit 'peacock-y' throwing herself into all sorts of new, bold, and risky activities. Martha finds herself wanting to say, 'Steady on, Mum!' but at the same time she knows she needs to leave Anne to it, respecting her independence.
This series explores their relationship in a different way. In the past, Anne and Martha were very, very close - there wasn't much air between them. But in this third series, the dynamic has shifted. Time and events do that to relationships, especially within families. The change is subtle but noticeable. It feels more grown-up in a way but there's also a sadness about it. Anne feels a little distanced from Martha now.
This shift is why her relationship with Zoe blossoms a bit more. There's something truly sweet about that bond. Zoe's youthful, open energy gives Anne something she's missing, and their relationship adds a lovely dimension to the story.
How does Anne feel about Humphrey and Martha's fostering journey?
Anne absolutely supports it. There's a sense of things coming full circle in a way, opening up new possibilities. But she's also concerned. Fostering comes with its own emotional challenges. It's not about owning or having. It's not about belonging in the traditional sense. Fostering is about looking after and caring for, and that carries its own complexities. There's always a level of concern with something like this but it's beautifully handled in this series. And Bella Rei Blue Stevens, who plays Rosie, is adorable.
Is there a particular episode or scene in this series that stands out to you?
This series is quite different for Anne. The previous series was heavy for her - it was lovely but emotionally intense. This series feels much more delicate and introspective. It's more about Anne's internal journey rather than being out there and actively looking for love.
It was also lovely to have Jamie (Bamber) back this series. Anne has always had a soft spot for Archie - she originally hoped Martha would marry him! Whenever he's around, it's like the lights go on for Anne. Those moments are such a delight to play.
I can't pinpoint one specific episode as a standout because there are meaningful moments in every single one. For example, there's a beautiful scene where Anne and Martha have a frank conversation. It's not particularly long but it's very impactful. There are many moments like that - some exciting, some silly, some deeply emotional. We get to bring these small, relatable stories into people's living rooms, showing a reflection of what they might be going through. That's such an important part of the series.
Why do you think audiences love Beyond Paradise?
There's something unique about it. It's in the scenery, the setting, the openness and the chemistry between the characters. And, of course, it's in the way it's written and brought to life. It's a wonderful passport into people's homes and I find so much of it incredibly enjoyable. As always, the better the writing, the better the result - and this series truly delivers. Writing has always been incredibly important to me. I've always been particular about working with exceptional writers and I've been fortunate to work with some of the best. I remember when Cracker landed on my doorstep, it was astounding writing, truly remarkable. Beyond Paradise is obviously very different - this is more about bringing stories into the sitting room. It's a more accessible kind of work though that doesn't mean it's easy. It's more approachable in its tone and themes. There's no violence here, it's about puzzles - the grey cells get a workout and that's terrific. It's the kind of series where you can sit down with the whole family knowing that nobody's going to end up with nightmares.
Beyond Paradise always features a fantastic guest cast. If you could choose anyone to appear, who would it be?
That's such a tough question but Sean Bean comes to mind. He's compelling and I'd love to see him on screen with a lurcher - something about that pairing would make my heart sing!
Interview with Jamie Bamber (Archie Hughes)
Archie's back in Shipton Abbott. How did it feel returning to the world of Beyond Paradise?
I couldn't have been more delighted when Tim Key, our executive producer, suggested we meet for lunch in London. He pitched a storyline to me that would bring Archie back. It really surprised me - it wasn't what I was expecting. I love that part of the world and I love all the people involved. It's such a warm-hearted work environment. The vibe you get on-screen is very much echoed behind the camera. So for me it was a no-brainer! The storyline was really fun, and I liked what Archie had to do this time. The character had moved on, he's matured and learned from his previous heartaches. Hopefully viewers will enjoy the ride.
What has Archie been up to since we last saw him?
It's not explicitly stated in the story but in my head Archie has been away licking his wounds. He's a man of independent means - he runs a vineyard and a big business and is very hands-on with that. But he's also taken some time to travel, to explore the wine business in other parts of the world and to reflect. He's a middle-aged man, single, and he's had many opportunities in life but he's burned some bridges along the way. I think he's done a bit of maturing and comes back to Shipton Abbott as someone who's ready to be more responsible, vulnerable, and open to new opportunities.
Archie was determined to move on from Martha. Where do we find him now in terms of his feelings for her?
I think Archie will always have more than just a soft spot for Martha. They're childhood friends and their families know each other. They're from the same part of the world and they almost got married! That history will never change.
For the record, I don't think Archie was a bad guy in the first series. This is the challenge of being in a drama where you're not the lead character and everyone's rooting for Humphrey. In another show, Archie's show, everyone would be rooting for him and Martha. I don't think Archie did anything wrong. He tried his hand. He's a middle-aged man and, if you sit on the sidelines your whole life, you'll stay there. He ducked out when asked to duck out and I think he did it with dignity.
But now, hopefully, they can find a way for their relationship to evolve and become what it needs to be in the future. But that's something to be explored throughout this series - whether they can develop a new kind of relationship that fits their lives today.
What might future relationships hold for Archie?
He's come back ready for other relationships. He's not the kind of man who's happy being a 'solo traveler' through life - he's looking for partnership. And without spoiling too much, he will give it a go somewhere in Shipton Abbott this season.
Did you enjoy returning to Devon and Cornwall for filming? Were there any particular shooting locations that stood out to you?
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. The smuggling, pirates, shipwrecks, fishing industry, tin mines, scenery, surfing... And I'm a golfer, so Cornwall has many lures for me.
Beyond Paradise is such a well-crafted, warm and engaging piece of television. It's a no-brainer for me to return. I couldn't wait to revisit Looe, which I have a real soft spot for. This time, I discovered Polperro a bit more. I love running and walking along the cliffs, I'm a bit of a fitness freak. My Cornwall routine is running on the cliffs and exploring. I stayed near Talland Bay where I'd swim in the mornings before work. It's stunning.
I also caught up with an old English teacher of mine, Mr. Venning. He taught me Animal Farm and was a big inspiration. He's from the area and we had coffee at the Smugglers' Hotel. He shared some local lore which was fascinating.
What can audiences look forward to this series?
More of the same but even better and different. The 'case of the week' stories are quirky, funny, and moving-everything you'd expect from Beyond Paradise! But for me, the real heart of the show is the relationships and character arcs. The main characters all have rich, evolving storylines. They're three-dimensional - navigating love, loss, illness and life's ups and downs. That's where Archie operates. He's part of that beating heart of the show. I have a confession though, I don't even read the case scripts! I only focus on Archie's storyline so I can watch the episodes like a viewer and discover the cases as they unfold. Archie doesn't know about the police work anyway, so it's fitting!
But yes, the show's special because it balances technical, clever mysteries with deep character stories. That's what makes it stand out.