Fans eagerly anticipate the release of season 11 of the popular comedy-crime drama, Death in Paradise, following a special boxing day episode.

The series which is set in the idyllic Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, known as Saint Marie in the programme, is focused on the lives and detective work of the local police force stationed in the fictional island’s capital of Honoré. The local police team are led by a series of English detectives who each have their own English idiosyncrasies that provide recurring amusement. For example, the most recent detective, Ralf Little, known in the drama as Detective Inspector Neville Parker, has many allergies that make life on an island a rather challenging experience. The first English detective in the series, Ben Miller, known in the drama as Detective Inspector Richard Poole, had a personality which made his living on an island hilarious to witness. Stubborn and unbending, he would continue to act as if he were still in England, wearing a suit to work despite the scorching temperatures and blinding Caribbean sun. The four English detectives featuring on the series so far have each had vastly contrasting personalities but all are eventually captivated by the life on Saint Marie by the time they leave the show. Many viewers, including myself, are attracted to the irony of chilling murders in such a warm, sunny setting.

Season 11 promises the arrival of a new officer Naomi Thomas, from a nearby island, played by Shantol Jackson, a fan of the show herself.

Personally, I can’t wait for the new season to begin. The final episode of season 10 included the departure of a long term member of the team and the detective inspector’s expression of affection for one of his team. Much to the viewers agony her response is yet to be known and this cliff hanger moment is hoped to be revealed in season 11, which is airing on Friday 7th January at 9pm on BBC One. Don’t miss it!