Return to Paradise cast: Meet the characters in the Death in Paradise spin-off
Even though she initially hesitates to stay, it doesn’t take long for her to dive back into her true talent: solving crimes. She also tries hard to steer clear of the locals, many of whom are not happy about her return.
Before the show premiered, co-creator Peter Mattessi discussed the difficulties of crafting engaging mysteries for the viewers, calling it a "nightmarish" experience.
"I often find myself haunted by memories of being in the story room, wrestling with how to get these puzzles to work," he shared.
Viewers of shows like this are some of the most dedicated audiences you'll come across. They have a deep understanding of the genre—they know the typical patterns, the clever techniques, and how to hide and uncover hints. They're fully tuned in to everything happening.
You need to keep that in mind, as they won’t let it slide if you make a mistake.
Only time will reveal whether Return to Paradise will be a hit with audiences, but it has more to offer than just mysteries.
Mackenzie's continuing personal challenges will engage you, along with her relationships with the other characters. The cast features a mix of familiar Australian stars, as well as some newcomers you may not be familiar with.
Discover the details about the cast of Return to Paradise below.
To learn more about the characters and to find out where you might recognize the cast from, keep reading.
Anna Samson As Mackenzie Clarke
Anna Samson portrays DI Mackenzie Clarke in the series Return to Paradise. BBC
Who is Mackenzie Clarke? She is a detective inspector with the Metropolitan Police in London, who finds herself returning to her hometown of Dolphin Cove in Australia, albeit somewhat unwillingly.
"She struggles with issues of community, feelings, love, and friendships—elements that are essential for us as humans; yet she believes she doesn't require any of them," Clarke explained.
This is where much of the plot's tension and humor stems from—particularly her return to the community she abandoned six years earlier under dramatic circumstances. She walked away from a wedding, which is not an easy situation to come back to. With her return, she carries a heavy burden of guilt. As she reconnects with her past, she's faced with a flood of emotions tied to familiar locations, memories, and old relationships. Despite her efforts to suppress these feelings, they tend to resurface unexpectedly.
What other roles has Anna Samson taken on? Many are familiar with her portrayal of Mia Anderson in Home and Away.
Lloyd Griffith Stars As Colin Cartwright
Lloyd Griffith portrays the character Colin Cartwright. This is a production by Red Planet, in collaboration with BBC Studios, and the photo credit goes to John Platt.
Who is Colin Cartwright? He's a detective constable who finds himself teamed up with Mackenzie.
"Colin embodies the spirit of our community," Griffith shared. "As a police officer, he has been a part of Dolphin Cove for around five years. His passion for the community is evident. He truly appreciates the camaraderie and connection we have here. It’s likely something he missed while living in England."
"He has truly been welcomed here, and people really appreciate him. Although his accent is a bit different, he shows a willingness to dive in and work hard, both in a literal sense and as a figure of speech."
What other projects has Lloyd Griffith been a part of? He is most recognized for his role in Ted Lasso.
Tai Hara Takes On Glenn Strong Role
Tai Hara portrays the character Glenn Strong. Image credit: Red Planet/BBC Studios/John Platt.
Who is Glenn Strong? He’s a forensic pathologist and the former fiancé of Mackenzie. She left him at the altar six years back.
Executive producer Belinda Campbell has hinted at a storyline that will keep viewers guessing about whether the characters will end up together or not.
What other shows has Tai Hara appeared in? You may remember him from Home and Away. He’s also known for his role in Colin from Accounts.
Catherine McClements Stars As Philomena Strong
Catherine McClements takes on the role of Philomena Strong. Red Planet/BBC Studios/John Platt.
Who is Philomena Strong? She's a senior sergeant, Glenn's mother, and was on track to become Mackenzie's mother-in-law until she unexpectedly departed.
Samson characterized the relationship between Mackenzie and Philomena as "intriguing." He explained, "Both are incredibly strong and intelligent women who hold a deep respect and admiration for one another, yet they find themselves in conflict due to Mackenzie's actions."
What other projects has Catherine McClements been a part of? She has appeared in shows like Rush, Water Rats, and Tangle.
Celia Ireland Stars As Reggie Rocco
Celia Ireland portrays the character Reggie Rocco. This is a production by Red Planet in collaboration with BBC Studios, with Julian Tynan involved.
Who is Reggie Rocco? He is a community member who volunteers with the police department.
Griffith referred to Ireland as "the most entertaining performer you'll ever come across."
"She's like the royalty of the dead," he said, "and she has this incredible ability to just take action. It's fascinating how her expression changes when she realizes the camera isn't focused on her."
What other projects has Celia Ireland been involved in? She's most recognized for her roles in "All Saints" and "Wentworth."
Aaron McGrath Portrays Felix Wilkinson
Aaron McGrath portrays Felix Wilkinson, while Celia Ireland takes on the role of Reggie Rocco. Image credits: Red Planet/BBC Studios/John Platt.
Who is Felix Wilkinson? He’s a police officer who usually teams up with Reggie. Although he’s the younger of the two, it’s often Felix who reminds Reggie to settle down and act appropriately.
What other shows has Aaron McGrath appeared in? You may know him from titles like Glitch, Ready for This, Gold Diggers, Preppers, and Back to the Rafters.
"Guest Stars Of Return To Paradise"
Jeremy Lindsay Taylor portrays the character Stuart Granger, while Jenni Baird takes on the role of Susan Sterling. This production is brought to you by Red Planet, BBC Studios, and John Platt.
The previous lead detective of Death in Paradise, Jack Mooney, portrayed by Ardal O'Hanlon, makes an appearance in the inaugural episode. He continues his work as a detective in London.
Return to Paradise is set to premiere on BBC One and iPlayer on Friday, November 22nd.
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