Why is Death in Paradise not on TV today? BBC schedule change and when next episode is
Death in Paradise fans are being warned about a big schedule change this evening! 👀🌴
It is an unlucky Friday 13th for Death in Paradise fans - as the show takes a surprise break. The beloved crime series will not be on the tele as usual this evening.
In a twist to the schedule, the BBC has pushed the programme out of its regular Friday night spot. However, fans won’t have to wait too long before they can catch up with Mervin and co.
Don Gilet has returned to lead the cast once again, becoming the latest fish-out-of-water British detective in Saint Marie. The team is joined by a new face for 2026 as well.
But why will the popular show be taking a shock night off? Here’s all you need to know:
Why is Death in Paradise not on TV today?
Fans of the beloved crime drama, who switch on BBC One this evening hoping to get their latest fix of Caribbean sunshine to banish the winter blues are in for a shock. The programme is not on today (February 13), it has been confirmed.
Death in Paradise is taking a surprise break, due to the Beeb having coverage of the FA Cup. Instead of the latest tale from Saint Marie, it will be showing Chelsea’s trip to Hull City.
The build-up to the football is set to start at 7.30pm and continue through to 10pm. It clashes with the usual Friday night schedule and has caused a rejig.
When is Death in Paradise next on TV?
Fortunately, fans will not have to wait a full week before the show makes its grand return. It is set to air on Monday (February 16) night at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
In a double-treat, the fourth episode will follow next Friday (February 20). Meaning there are two helpings in just five days.
The preview for Monday’s episode teases: “Mervin and the team are left perplexed when a reclusive pensioner is shot dead in his home. A prime suspect is quickly established in the form of an unassuming accountant.
“The evidence seems damning – a figure matching the suspect’s description was witnessed fleeing the crime scene. And when questioned, there’s clearly something shifty about this guy. The only problem? He’s got a rock-solid alibi.”
Who is in the cast of Death in Paradise?
- Don Gilet - DI Mervin Wilson
- Don Warrington - Commissioner Selwyn Patterson
- Elizabeth Bourgine - Catherine Bordey
- Shantol Jackson - Detective Sergeant Naomi Thomas
- Shaquille Ali-Yebuah - Officer Sebastian Rose
- Catherine Garton - Sergeant Mattie Fletcher
- Daniel Ward - Solomon
Who is new for Death in Paradise series 15?
Changes are afoot in Saint Marie this season, including a new face around the police station. Catherine Garton has joined the cast as Sergeant Mattie Fletcher.
Speaking about the role, Catherine said: “She's really fun to play. She's sassy, but she's like your big sister who will tell you what's what, but you can also come to her if you need to.
“You can have a laugh with her. She's very passionate about things, about her work and about the people that she grows to love, especially in the team. She’s also very determined, almost too determined sometimes…”
She continued: “She has something to prove to herself and to others and sometimes she can do that to her detriment, but it comes from a place of passion. They will see ups, downs and lots of sass!”
Teasing what to expect from this season’s new recruit, Don Gilet said: “There's definitely something of a rebel in Mattie. We haven't had that rebellious element, really. She's a bit younger, probably a similar age, give or take, to Officer Seb Rose, but she's seen a lot more.
“She’s a sergeant and she’s more experienced and is always on the front foot, whereas Seb is going through his rookie stripes. It’s great seeing how the two of them connect – there’s a nurturing side as well as a rebellious side. She’s a great addition to the team.”