Sun, Sand, and Suspense: A First Look at “Death in Benidorm”
A new crime drama is heading to your screens, promising a blend of sunshine, intrigue, and compelling characters. “Death in Benidorm,” currently a working title, is set to bring a fresh twist to the popular “cosy crime” genre. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting upcoming series.
A Detective Out of Water
The story centers around Dennis, a former detective seeking a peaceful escape from his past. He trades the bustling streets of the U.K. for the vibrant coastal resort town of Benidorm, Spain, hoping to find tranquility running a local bar. Though, his quiet life is quickly disrupted when tourists begin to fall victim to mysterious deaths.
Reluctantly, Dennis finds himself drawn back into the world of investigation. Fortunately, he’s not alone. Rosa, his enthusiastic barmaid and a devoted fan of crime dramas, eagerly assists, providing a unique outlook fueled by her encyclopedic knowledge of television detective work.
A Unique Detective Duo
Each episode will feature a new murder investigation, showcasing the dynamic between Dennis’s real-world experience and Rosa’s TV-honed insights. They’ll navigate the complexities of each case while striving to cooperate with the local Spanish police.
Meet the Cast
* John Hannah stars as Dennis, bringing his signature blend of sharp intellect and dry wit to the role.
* carolina Bécquer plays Rosa, the crime drama-loving barmaid who provides crucial support.
* Ariadna Cabrol appears as Maria.
* Damian Schedler Cruz portrays Jesús.
Behind the Scenes
“Death in benidorm” is a co-production between Blackbox Multimedia and Clapperboard, with ZDF Studios handling international distribution. The series was commissioned by Greg Barnett, commissioning editor at 5.
The creative team includes:
* Ian Jarvis (creator, known for “The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin”)
* Simon Delaney (director, with credits including “Death in Paradise” and “The Young Offenders”)
* Yasmine Akram, Claire Downes, and Tom Parry (writers, bringing diverse experience to the scripts)
* Chiara Cardoso and Camilla Hammer (executive producers for Blackbox Multimedia)
* Mike Benson and Andy Morgan (executive producers for Clapperboard)
* Robert Franke and Viviane Richard (ZDF Studios)
A Familiar Feel with a Fresh Perspective
Fans of the long-running BBC series “Death in Paradise” will likely recognize some thematic similarities. However, “Death in Benidorm” promises its own unique charm and wit. According to those involved, John Hannah is perfectly cast, embodying a character with depth, intelligence, and a relatable quality that viewers will quickly embrace.
“Death in Benidorm is such a witty and charming addition to the cosy crime genre, and John Hannah truly encapsulates this,” shared Viviane Richard.
When and Where to Watch
Filming is currently underway in Spain. You can expect to see “Death in Benidorm” air on 5 in 2026.Prepare for a captivating blend of mystery, humor, and stunning scenery – a perfect escape for any crime drama enthusiast.
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