The television series *Benidorm Is Murder* returns viewers to the sun-soaked Spanish resort town, blending the familiar holiday atmosphere of ITV's original *Benidorm* comedy drama with a new crime twist. Created by writer Ian Jarvis, the show introduces a weekly murder mystery element reminiscent of other holiday-set detective series, offering a fresh take on the popular package holiday setting.
Set amidst the bustling high-rise hotels, packed beaches, and neon-lit bars, the series maintains the recognizable features of the original *Benidorm* — from the eclectic mix of tourists sporting sunburns to the persistent scramble for sunbeds and the lively karaoke sessions. The new drama injects a murder each week, turning the relaxed backdrop into a stage for suspense and investigation. This approach echoes similar recent efforts such as Sky’s *A Town Called Malice*, focusing on a London crime family in Spain, and Channel 5’s *The Good Ship Murder*, which involves mysteries set on cruise holidays.
The show's opening episode introduces a fictional tribute band named Mis-Take That, comprising four men adopting the personas of the famous pop group Take That, with a humorous nod to missing member Robbie Williams. The murder plot centers on Williams’ character, who is found dead in the hotel pool, with Gary Barlow’s character immediately becoming the prime suspect. The timeline of the crime is comically precise, occurring within a minute, highlighting the series’ lighthearted tone amid the intrigue.
John Hannah stars as Dennis, a retired police officer now running a basement bar catering to a sparse clientele, where he spends his days drinking ale and watching television. Alongside him is Rosa, an out-of-work actress fascinated by classic murder mysteries, who becomes his amateur detective partner. Adding to the dynamic is Sergeant Hernandez, portrayed by Ariadna Cabrol, a career police officer also entwined with Dennis in a complicated personal relationship. Their sharp exchanges provide an ongoing source of humor, reflecting the show’s blend of crime and comedy.
This six-episode series draws heavily on cosy mystery conventions and plays with familiar tropes, all set against a backdrop of holiday kitsch and British expatriate culture. Viewers familiar with the original *Benidorm* will recognize many of the settings and character types that defined its 11-year run, while the introduction of a murder mystery format offers a new twist on a beloved formula. The series has already generated anticipation for a potential second season.