Viewers were left emotionally charged during the Christmas special of Beyond Paradise, prompting many to voice their dissatisfaction with the BBC’s scheduling decisions. Fans believe this poignant drama should have taken the prime slot typically occupied by Mrs Brown’s Boys.
The special, which aired earlier this week, offered one of the most touching episodes in the series’ history. Beyond Paradise, a spin-off from the popular show Death In Paradise, features Kris Marshall as Detective Inspector Humphrey Goodman. The series first premiered two years ago and quickly gained a loyal audience.
Viewers Express Their Emotions
This Christmas episode followed Detective Inspector Goodman as he helped an elderly man suffering from dementia, who appeared at the police station clutching a photograph. The man was on a quest to find his lost sister, armed with only a few clues. This deeply personal storyline resonated with many viewers, leaving them in tears.
Social media was flooded with reactions following the broadcast. One viewer shared, “#BeyondParadise ooh I am not crying,” while another commented, “What have you done to me? I am a 49-year-old man and I’m crying my eyes out. That is how you do a Christmas Episode—emotional, funny, heartwarming!”
Many viewers took to X, expressing their admiration for the episode’s emotional depth. Comments included, “Crying ugly tears at the #BeyondParadise Christmas special. So beautiful, poignant & emotional,” and “Crying and smiling throughout this episode. Just brilliant as always.” These sentiments illustrate the profound impact the show had on its audience.
Criticism of Scheduling Choices
Despite the positive reception of the episode, some viewers were critical of the BBC’s scheduling decisions. One dismayed fan questioned why Beyond Paradise was not aired on Christmas evening instead of popular shows like EastEnders and Mrs Brown’s Boys, which have been staples in the holiday lineup.
Comments from viewers highlighted this frustration. One viewer remarked, “Just finished watching #BeyondParadise, a nice harmless Christmas show with a great outcome. Why didn’t the BBC schedule this for Christmas evening rather than more celebrity programmes?” Another viewer praised the episode, stating, “What a great episode the Christmas special was.”
Reflecting on the emotional storyline, Kris Marshall noted, “It’s such a personal story for Humphrey. A man turns up on his doorstep with a picture, and we’re not sure why, but it soon becomes a deeply touching story.” He added, “It’s a very Christmassy story that warms the cockles.”
The response to this Christmas special indicates that viewers are eager for heartfelt narratives during the festive season, suggesting that the BBC may need to reconsider its programming strategies for future holiday schedules.
