Death in Paradise’s finale has been delayed after unexpected BBC shake-up

Death in Paradise still
Death in Paradise will not air its finale when expected by fans (Picture: BBC / Red Planet Pictures / Philippe Virapin)

Death in Paradise fans will have to wait an extra week for the highly anticipated finale as BBC adjust the schedule for Comic Relief.

The penultimate episode will air as usual tonight on BBC One at 9pm with Don Gilet continuing his stint as the new detective in town, DI Mervin Wilson, taking over from Ralf Little.

But for those eager to see the dramatic conclusion of the series, the newly updated BBC schedule has confirmed that it will not be airing on Friday, March 21.

Instead, it is making way for Comic Relief, an annual televised fundraiser to tackle poverty and support disadvantaged communities around the world.

It comes with a line-up of guest stars and TV charity specials, including a Beyond Paradise and Not Going Out crossover this year. The dual star Sally Bretton will be joined by Lee Mack and Kris Marshall for the sketch.

This means, however, that Death in Paradise will be wavering from its usual programming, with the final episode airing on Friday, March 28, instead.

Death in Paradise still
It has been pushed to a week later instead to make way for Comic Relief (Picture: BBC / Red Planet Pictures / Lou Denim)

For those who simply can’t wait – there is a synopsis for the finale which gives an idea of exactly what tragic drama is in store for our sunny island inhabitants.

It reads: ‘Just as he is about to fly home, Mervin finds himself at the centre of a murder investigation when a body is discovered in his shack.

‘While he professes his innocence, the team is perplexed with the circumstances – namely how the victim ended up inside a locked building with no sign of forced entry.

‘The woman’s identity remains elusive until they discover she was volunteering at a local turtle conservation charity. Meanwhile, Selwyn delivers some personal news to Mervin that turns everything on its head.’

Don has wowed fans since he joined the show during the 2024 Christmas special before kicking off his first full season in February.

Death in Paradise promo pic
Don Gilet has won fans over as the new lead of the show this season (Picture: BBC/Red Planet Pictures/Lou Denim)

The EastEnders actor has reflected on the joy and fear he felt taking on such an iconic role.

He said at the time: ‘I’m sure it won’t be a surprise to say that it was both exciting and terrifying in equal measure. I liken it to one of those scary rides at a theme park.

‘I’m going on it, and I know it’s going to be scary, but I’m going to do it. You’re daring yourself.

‘Then you sit in the seat going, “What have I just let myself in for?!”. But it was exciting because I knew I was embarking on this new journey.’

Death in Paradise airs on Friday at 9pm on BBC One. The finale will air on March 28.

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