Beyond Paradise drops huge clue to unlikely romance as series returns
The BBC detective drama series has seen a number of characters unlucky in love - but it looks like one couple could finally be getting their happy ending
One couple in Beyond Paradise may have finally discovered love after enduring years of heartache. The popular BBC detective drama series, a spin-off from Death In Paradise, has been rife with romantic storylines since its return to our screens.
After rekindling their relationship in Saint Marie, Humphrey and Martha chose to continue their love story back in Shipton Abbot. However, not all characters in the series have found love quite so easily.
Indeed, Humphrey and Martha's romance was put to the test with the arrival of Archie, Martha's former flame. Despite Archie's lingering feelings for his ex, nothing transpired between them as Martha remained devoted to Humphrey.
Meanwhile, discussions about dating apps have dominated conversations between Martha's mother Anne and Esther's daughter Zoe, both on the hunt for Mr Right. Last series saw Anne heartbroken when she discovered her romantic interest was already wedded.
A potential romance has also been brewing between young PC Kelby Hartford and his superior, the Chief Superintendent. She even planted a kiss on his cheek last series in gratitude for his support during a case involving her grandmother, reports the Mirror.
However, any hopes for a relationship seem dashed as the Chief Superintendent is happily involved with someone else, prompting Kelby to explore online dating.
Dylan, the actor behind the charming character Kelby, divulged: "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."
Kelby's journey through love seems to hit a few snags; however, romance might be sparking for Esther in an unexpected twist. Tonight's episode teases the reappearance of Archie Hughes, who appears to be quite taken with Esther.
Their playful banter over champagne hints at a potential new love story brewing.
Discussing what’s next for Esther, Zahra commented: "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 went on to say: "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."
Beyond Paradise is available to watch BBC IPlayer.