Will Beyond Paradise Get a Season 4? Latest Updates for 2025

 Will Beyond Paradise return for Season 4? Get the latest 2025 updates on filming, cast, and plot speculation. Read now!

Introduction

Beyond Paradise, the Death in Paradise spin-off, has fans buzzing about whether Season 4 is coming after its third season wrapped on May 2, 2025. With 8.7 million viewers tuning in for the Season 1 premiere and a loyal fanbase, the show’s future looks promising, even though the BBC hasn’t officially confirmed a renewal. Zahra Ahmadi, who plays DS Esther Williams, told Yahoo News she’d love to see it run for 14 seasons, citing untapped character potential and quirky cases.

 Filming updates from Cornwall and strong ratings—like 5 million for Season 3’s opener—suggest Shipton Abbott isn’t done yet. Why does this matter? The show’s cozy mysteries and heartfelt stories, like Humphrey and Martha’s fostering journey, keep viewers hooked. Let’s break down the latest on Season 4, from production clues to what fans want next.

Filming Updates: Is Season 4 in Production?

Recent reports point to Beyond Paradise Season 4 filming starting in July 2025 in Cornwall, with production running through November, according to a fan-shared notice from Red Planet Pictures and a “BP Unit” sign spotted at St Mellion Golf Club. The Express and TV Zone UK noted these developments, with the latter claiming a commission based on production listings. 

This matters because filming schedules often signal a renewal, even without BBC confirmation. Season 3 filmed from August to December 2024 and aired in March 2025, so a similar timeline suggests a spring 2026 premiere, likely March or April. A mistake would be assuming these fan reports are official—without BBC backing, delays could push the release later. If production doesn’t start as planned, fans might wait until late 2026, disrupting the show’s annual rhythm.

Who’s Returning for Season 4?

The core cast is expected to return, with Kris Marshall as DI Humphrey Goodman and Sally Bretton as Martha Lloyd leading the charge. Zahra Ahmadi (DS Esther Williams), Dylan Llewellyn (PC Kelby Hartford), Felicity Montagu (Margo Martins), and Barbara Flynn (Anne Lloyd) are likely back, given their consistent roles. Jamie Bamber’s Archie Hughes, Martha’s ex, might return after his Season 3 comeback, though his arc remains divisive among fans.

 Guest stars like Hugh Dennis and Caroline Quentin set a precedent for big names, so expect similar additions. Casting is key because the ensemble’s chemistry drives the show’s charm. A misstep—like sidelining fan-favorites or overusing Archie—could alienate viewers, as seen in IMDb reviews criticizing Season 1’s focus on drama over team dynamics. If the show loses its core cast, it risks diluting its cozy appeal.

What Could Season 4’s Plot Look Like?

Plot details are scarce, but Beyond Paradise thrives on lighthearted crimes and personal stories. Season 3 tackled a body in a river, chocolate box poisoning, and a kidnapping, alongside Humphrey and Martha’s emotional fostering arc with Rosie. Season 4 will likely deliver more quirky cases—think village thefts or oddball feuds—while deepening character arcs. The fostering storyline could evolve, perhaps with a new child, as Sally Bretton told RadioTimes that fans love Humphrey and Martha’s bond.

 Archie’s return might stir tension, but overdoing it could repeat Season 1’s mistake of leaning too heavily on drama, which fans on X called “soap-opera nonsense.” If the writers ignore the show’s cozy roots, they risk losing its unique vibe. A Christmas special in December 2025, following the 2023 and 2024 tradition, could tease new plots.

Why Cornwall Matters to the Show

Beyond Paradise is set in the fictional Devon town of Shipton Abbott but filmed in Cornwall, with Looe’s Fore Street as the market square and the Guildhall as the police station. Pentillie Castle and Port Eliot House add scenic depth. These locations boost Cornwall’s economy—Looe’s Sardine Factory saw a tourism spike after being featured, per a BBC report. Kris Marshall praised Rame Head’s beauty in a BBC press pack, but fans on IMDb criticize “generic West Country accents” as lazy writing. Authenticity matters; stereotyping locals as “village idiots” could alienate viewers familiar with Cornwall. Filming from July to November 2025 will likely disrupt local life, so the crew must balance community relations. If they lean too hard into clichés, the show risks feeling disconnected from its setting.

The Death in Paradise Franchise and Its Future

Beyond Paradise is part of a thriving franchise, with Death in Paradise filming Season 15 and Return to Paradise confirmed for a second season. Its 8.7 million viewers for the Season 1 premiere and 5 million for Season 3 show its strength, per The Standard. Zahra Ahmadi’s 14-season hope reflects the show’s potential, but it must carve its own path. 

Unlike Death in Paradise’s murder-heavy plots, Beyond Paradise focuses on lighter crimes, which gives it flexibility but risks repetition. Season 1’s Archie drama felt too derivative, per IMDb reviews. Season 4 needs fresh cases and deeper team stories, like Kelby’s growth or Esther’s arc, to stand out. If it mimics the parent show too closely, it could lose its identity. The Red Nose Day 2025 crossover with Not Going Out shows its playful side, which could keep things fresh.

Fan Expectations and Potential Pitfalls

Fans love Humphrey’s quirky charm and the cozy mysteries, but they’ve got gripes. IMDb reviews slam Season 1’s IVF storyline and “dumb yokel” stereotypes, wanting more focus on Shipton Abbott’s locals and team dynamics. Season 3’s six-episode run felt rushed, per Digital Spy, which argued an eight-episode format like Death in Paradise would allow deeper arcs, like Rosie’s fostering journey. Season 4 must balance personal stories with clever cases, as Zahra Ahmadi noted the untapped potential in characters like Kelby or Margo. Fans on X are vocal about wanting less drama and more humor, with one post calling Archie’s return “pointless.” If Season 4 ignores these critiques, it could lose its core audience. A strong Christmas special could set the tone, but overcomplicating plots risks diluting the show’s warmth.

How the Show Impacts Viewers and Cornwall

Beyond Paradise isn’t just TV—it’s a cultural and economic force. Its 8.7 million viewers for Season 1 and 7.5 million for Season 2’s opener show its pull, per IMDb. Cornwall’s tourism benefits, with businesses like Looe’s Sardine Factory seeing spikes after being featured. But filming disrupts locals, and the July-to-November schedule could strain community ties if not managed well. Fans connect with Humphrey and Martha’s relatable struggles, like fostering, which mirrors real-life challenges. A mistake is overusing heavy drama—Season 3’s Rosie arc worked because it was heartfelt, not melodramatic. If Season 4 leans too soap-opera, it could alienate viewers seeking cozy escapism. The show’s global reach, with Seasons 1 and 2 sold to 135 territories, per What to Watch, shows its broad appeal, but it must stay true to its roots.

FAQs

Has Beyond Paradise Season 4 Been Confirmed?

As of July 2025, the BBC hasn’t officially confirmed Season 4, but filming reports from Cornwall, including a “BP Unit” sign and a July-to-November schedule, suggest it’s happening. TV Zone UK claims a commission based on production listings. Season 3’s 5 million premiere viewers make renewal likely. Expect a March or April 2026 premiere if confirmed.

Where Is Season 4 Being Filmed?

Filming is reportedly underway in Cornwall, with Looe as the main hub for Shipton Abbott. St Mellion Golf Club houses production trailers, and spots like Polperro and Pentillie Castle are likely used. Cornwall’s charm boosts tourism but sparks debate over the Devon setting, which some fans find confusing.

Who Will Star in Season 4?

Kris Marshall (Humphrey), Sally Bretton (Martha), Zahra Ahmadi (Esther), Dylan Llewellyn (Kelby), Felicity Montagu (Margo), and Barbara Flynn (Anne) are expected to return. Jamie Bamber’s Archie is unconfirmed but possible. Guest stars like Hugh Dennis could set the tone for new faces. No official cast list yet.

What Will Season 4’s Plot Focus On?

No details are confirmed, but expect quirky crimes like thefts or village disputes, plus Humphrey and Martha’s fostering arc. Season 3’s emotional Rosie storyline suggests deeper personal stakes. Fans want less heavy drama and more Shipton Abbott focus. Overloading soap-opera elements could alienate viewers.

Will There Be a 2025 Christmas Special?

Beyond Paradise had specials in 2023 and 2024, so a December 2025 episode is likely, possibly filmed already, per TV Guide UK. It could tease Season 4’s mysteries or personal arcs, like Humphrey and Martha’s fostering. No official confirmation yet.

Why Does Beyond Paradise Resonate with Fans?

The show’s cozy mysteries and relatable characters, like Humphrey’s goofy charm, draw viewers. Its 8.7 million Season 1 viewers show its appeal. Cornwall’s scenery and stories like fostering connect emotionally, but fans criticize stereotypes. Staying authentic and balancing humor with drama is key.

Conclusion

Beyond Paradise Season 4 looks promising, with filming reportedly underway in Cornwall from July to November 2025, pointing to a spring 2026 premiere. Kris Marshall, Sally Bretton, and the Shipton Abbott crew are likely back, tackling quirky crimes and personal arcs like fostering. Fans want more focus on the town’s locals and less heavy drama, per X posts and IMDb reviews. Cornwall’s scenic filming locations boost tourism but need authenticity to avoid clichés. With the Death in Paradise franchise thriving, Season 4 has a chance to solidify its place. Share your hopes for Shipton Abbott in the comments!