Fans of Death in Paradise have noted that the show’s inaugural female detective, Mackenzie Clarke (portrayed by Anna Samson), bears a striking resemblance to DI Richard Poole (Ben Miller), the programme’s original DI.
The fresh spin-off, Return to Paradise, premiered its second episode tonight, and fans didn’t hesitate to share their thoughts.
Ben Miller’s alter ego met an untimely end at the start of the third season when he became the victim of an ice-pick murder. However, astute viewers identified a significant parallel between the two esteemed detectives.
Admirers flocked to a Facebook fan group to convey their observations on Mackenzie and Richard, with one remarking: “I liked it! The lead character seems to be like a female Richard Poole or Neville Parker. I hope we see more of Jack in the future,” reports .
A second concurred: “Yes, you’re right, very Richard Poole-ish.” (sic)
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Mackenzie Clarke plays the show’s first female lead (Image: BBC)
Another chimed in: “Just when I thought DI Richard Poole was not a people-friendly person, up pops DI Mackenzie Clarke.”
Recalling a moment where Mackenzie hauled her suitcase across the beach reminiscent of Richard Poole’s similar beachside entrance, a fan commented: “The DIP DNA is there, a lead character with baggage, quirky supports, cute animal.”
The actress who portrays Mackenzie has previously spoken about Return to Paradise and her character’s echoes of detective Richard Poole.
Ben Miller as DI Richard Poole (Image: BBC / Red Planet / Denis Guyenon)
She divulged: “So the show, without being a carbon copy of the original, has lots of tips of the hat to the original, not just with the characters but even certain shots are paying homage to the original, like on the beach with the suitcase and not [wearing] an appropriate outfit for the weather. That is certainly a wink and a nod to the original.”
The actress also touched upon the comeback of detective Jack Mooney (portrayed by Ardal O’Hanlon).
Anna shared: “I didn’t get to meet Ardal because he shot his stuff in London and my stuff in Australia. I want to meet all of [the Death in Paradise cast]. I think it is something about playing the lead detective in a Paradise show, so I want to talk to them; I would love to meet them all.”
Return to Paradise is available to watch on iPlayer.