BBC Death in Paradise fans ‘heartbroken’ after ‘unexpected’ twist just minutes into episode
The hit show returned to screens for a fresh series but fans were left devastated before the opening credits even rolled
BBC viewers excited to tune in to watch a brand new season of Death In Paradise were left stunned after a devastating twist that came just minutes in to the first episode.
The fourteenth series of the drama kicked off tonight at 9pm (January 31), with viewers introduced to Officer Benjamin Brice. The opening scenes documented his life story, from his struggles in childhood all the way through to his police training and graduation. We then learn he is going to start his job as a Police Officer with Police Saint Marie the next day.
In a highly emotional scene, Benjamin records himself sharing what he has learned from his life’s journey so far for social media.
“I want you to know, if you’re feeling lost you don’t need to go through what I did – you just need to find your purpose in life like me. And once you do, nobody can take that away from you,” he says before smiling at his hung up police uniform.
The loveable character was killed off just minutes in (
BBC)
But the next day, Benjamin fails to show up for work. We soon see his lifeless body at the side of the road after a jogger calls it in to the police.
The dramatic twist left fans stunned, with the death happening even before the opening titles had started.
“This might be the most emotionally devastating our theme song has ever felt. Never getting over this one,” one show superfan said, adding: “Fastest I’ve ever fallen for a character and had them ripped away… Fully broke my heart, poor Benjamin.”
Benjamin was seen recording a video message before he died (
BBC)
“I was not expecting that start to Death in Paradise. WHAAAAAAAT!?!” exclaimed another, alongside a shocked face emoji. Another viewer even likened the opening minutes of the episode to the famously sad opening montage in the Pixar film, Up, as another said: “Benjamin Brice was killed quicker than Charlie Hulme.”
Despite his brief appearance on the programme, Office Brice made a huge impression on the show’s fanbase. Actor Anthony J Abraham portrays the ill-fated policeman, with his previous acting credits including Fillik in The Acolyte and Jack Ryan in Bad Education.
The new series of Death In Paradise sees Don Gilet make his official debut as lead detective DI Mervin Wilson, after taking over from Ralf Little, who played DI Neville Parker.
Death in Paradise’s first episode of Season 14 is available to watch now on BBC iPlayer
