Beyond Paradise Christmas Special cast tease potentially supernatural mystery and reveal their childhood nativity roles

Kris Marshall (DI Humphrey Goodman)

We’re back in Shipton Abbott for Christmas, and Humphrey and Martha have taken in teenager Jaiden. How do they find this new chapter?

So far, the only foster placement Humphrey and Martha have had was a young boy called Ryan, who was cheeky, energetic, and relatively easy to look after – but that was just a short-term placement.

Every child is different, and fostering is an emotional rollercoaster. Each placement brings its unique challenges, and Martha and Humphrey face them together. While Humphrey is supportive and involved, most of the parenting tends to fall on Martha’s shoulders. But Humphrey does find the whole fostering experience deeply rewarding.

Humphrey and Esther investigate a potentially supernatural case in this episode. Does Humphrey believe in ghosts?

Humphrey doesn’t rule anything out, but he’s always up for a challenge. He loves unusual cases – anything out of the ordinary, whether it’s ghosts, or just something strange. He enjoys getting stuck into these mysteries and picking them apart. As a policeman, he’s naturally sceptical and doesn’t believe in coincidences. But for him, the thrill comes from unravelling the mystery, which is what gets him excited about the job.

Who would you most like to buy or receive a Secret Santa gift from in the cast?

Humphrey would love to receive a Secret Santa gift from Margo. He finds her so intriguing – she’s mysterious and no-nonsense, and he’d be fascinated to know what she’d choose for him.

As for me, I’d love to receive a gift from Zahra. She’s the best at presents – always so thoughtful and great at remembering people’s birthdays.

An incomplete nativity scene is central to the mystery in this episode, which brings back memories of school Christmases. Did you take part in a nativity at school? Who did you play?

I did, yes! I played one of the wise men when I was about five years old. I don’t remember which one, but I still vividly remember the crown I wore. It was made of silver foil with blue and red tissue paper. In fact, it was in my mum’s loft until I was in my mid-20s.

What’s your favourite Christmas tradition?

I’m not hugely traditional when it comes to Christmas, but putting up the tree is my favourite tradition. It’s such a symbol of the season. We put on some Christmas songs, break out the mince pies, and decorate the tree together as a family. It’s always such a lovely moment.

What are your plans for Christmas?

We’re doing a wider family Christmas when the kids break up from school, and then we’ll be going on a getaway after.

Sally Bretton (Martha Lloyd)

We’re back in Shipton Abbott for Christmas, and Humphrey and Martha have taken in teenager Jaiden. How do they find this?

Jaiden is a bit of a challenge at first. Like any typical teenager, he’s glued to his phone and headphones, and it takes him a while to warm up to Martha. She really tries to make a connection with him but it’s not easy.

As the episode unfolds, we learn that Jaiden is struggling with being separated from his little brother. It’s a big learning experience for Martha and Humphrey, who have only cared for younger children before. Handling a teenager presents new challenges, but Martha is determined to make it a special Christmas for Jaiden, nonetheless.

Who would you most like to buy or receive a Secret Santa gift from in the cast?

I’d love to buy Zahra a gift. She’s always doing thoughtful things for the cast and crew on set, and I think she deserves something special in return. She’s one of those people who brings a lot of warmth and kindness to everyone around her.

As for Martha, I imagine she’d want to buy something for Zoe. She works so hard, often going above and beyond, so Martha would want to show her appreciation with a little treat—something that says “thank you” for all the effort she puts in at 10 Mile Kitchen.

If I had to choose someone to receive a present from, it would be Barbara. She has such great style, and makes the most beautiful jewellery, so I know any gift from her would be incredibly thoughtful and meaningful.

Martha would treasure any gift from Humphrey, even if it was something simple. It wouldn’t matter to her if it wasn’t fancy—she’d cherish whatever he gave her, just because it would come from him.

An incomplete nativity scene is central to this episode’s mystery, bringing back memories of school nativities. Did you take part in a nativity at school? Who did you play?

Yes, I played a shepherd, complete with the homemade outfit and all!

What’s your favourite Christmas tradition?

One of my favourite traditions is taking my family to a Christmas production. Picking the show and then surprising them with it is one of the highlights of my Christmas.

What are your plans for Christmas this year?

It’s all about home and family this year—lots of delicious food and quality time together.

Zahra Ahmadi (DS Esther Williams)

We’re back in Shipton Abbott for Christmas, and Humphrey and Esther are investigating a potentially supernatural case. Does Esther believe in ghosts?

Esther is 99% sceptical, but there’s a tiny part of her that is open to the possibility. She tries to convince herself that she doesn’t believe in ghosts, but after losing Zoe’s dad, she’s become more willing to consider the supernatural.

Who would you most like to buy or receive a Secret Santa gift from in the cast?

I’d love to buy Kris Marshall a huge jar of Marmite. He’s not a fan of it, so I think it would really wind him up, which would be hilarious. As for Esther, she’d get Kelby a pair of earmuffs – his ears are always cold!

I’d like to receive a gift from Kris, because he’s such a good gift-giver. He’s bought me presents in the past, and he always seems to know exactly what I like – usually something food-related. Esther would love to receive something delicious and homemade from Martha.

An incomplete nativity scene is central to this episode’s mystery, bringing back memories of school nativities. Did you take part in one at school? Who did you play?

I was the back end of the camel, which wasn’t exactly the starring role I wanted – I’d hoped to play Mary!

What’s your favourite Christmas tradition?

I love decorating the tree. We have a tradition where we put on music, watch a Christmas movie, and enjoy mulled wine. It really helps bring in the Christmas spirit and gets us all in the festive mood.

Dylan Llewellyn (PC Kelby Hartford)

Kelby and Margo share some great moments in this festive episode. What’s it like working with Felicity Montagu?

I love working with Felicity – she’s incredibly funny and an amazing comedic actor. I’ve learnt so much from her and I really look up to her. The chemistry between our characters is so natural, and it’s always a joy to work together. She’s so much fun to be around.

How is Kelby coping with his feelings for the Chief Superintendent in this episode?

Kelby’s still very much a lovesick puppy when it comes to the Chief Superintendent (Jade Harrison). He’s holding out hope for a Christmas miracle – maybe even a kiss under the mistletoe. Whether that will happen or not is anyone’s guess, but you never know!

Is he trying to impress her by solving the case?

In the final episode of the last series, Kelby showed his value to the team and proved he was a professional. This time around, he’s continuing to show that he’s a capable policeman and that he’s good at his job. Hopefully, that will help him form a bond with the Chief Superintendent.

An incomplete nativity scene is central to the mystery in this episode. Did you take part in a nativity at school? Who did you play?

Yes, I was in a few nativities! I played one of the Kings. I vaguely remember it being at a church, and there was a moment when the priest said that anyone who had recently celebrated a birthday should come up and light a candle. Two of the kings in my group had birthdays around that time, so I mistakenly thought I should go up too, even though it wasn’t my birthday. I realised a bit too late that I wasn’t supposed to be up there!

Who would you most like to receive a Secret Santa gift from, or give one to, in the cast?

If I were to give a Secret Santa gift, I’d love to get something for Zahra – maybe something to do with Plymouth FC as she’s a huge fan, like a scarf or even a Wayne Rooney shirt. As for receiving a gift, I think Zahra would probably get me something Crystal Palace FC-related, which would be perfect!

Character-wise, I think it would be cute for Kelby to receive a Secret Santa gift from Margo. They’re close friends and colleagues, so I can imagine Margo getting him a cool, funky shirt that he could wear on a date. As for what Kelby would get her, I think he’d pick up a Blu-ray of an action film – maybe Die Hard, since it’s a Christmas classic!

What are your plans for Christmas this year?

I’m hoping to spend Christmas on the Isle of Wight with my family. My parents have a cottage there, so I’m looking forward to cosy board games and great food.

Barbara Flynn (Anne Lloyd)

What was it like working with Mark Heap?

I really enjoyed working with Mark. The storyline was so much fun, and it was a great experience to explore Anne’s world further alongside him. I hope everyone enjoys watching the episode and it gets viewers into the festive spirit – maybe even while wrapping presents!

Who would you most like to buy or receive a Secret Santa gift from in the cast?

I think Anne would love to buy a gift for Humphrey and she’s becoming really fond of Zoe (Melina Sinadinou), so I can see her wanting to get something for either of them.

As for me, I’d love to buy presents for the whole cast – something that we could all enjoy together, such as an experience or a big cake to share. I think Anne would probably be thrilled to receive a gift from Zoe. Their bond has grown so much over the last series, especially working together at Martha’s 10 Mile Kitchen.

What’s your favourite Christmas tradition?

For me, it’s all about cooking and spending time around a roaring fire. There’s something special about sharing food that brings everyone together. I’ve never cooked turkey – usually, we go for duck or Beef Wellington, though we also love goose, even if it’s a bit of a hassle! And of course, the puddings are a must – cherries dipped in chocolate have always been a family favourite.

What are your plans for Christmas this year?

I’d love to have a snowy Christmas, but it’s been a long time since that’s happened. This year, we’ll have a very full house with lots of food, music, and festive cheer. I also have an exhibition planned for the jewellery I make, so it looks like it will be a busy but fun Christmas!

Felicity Montagu (Office Support Margo Martins)

Kelby and Margo have some great moments in this festive episode. How do you find working with Dylan Llewellyn?

Dylan is fantastic to work with. He brings a unique energy and has a twinkle in his eye. He’s incredibly kind and supportive, which always makes our filming experience so enjoyable. His quirky, interesting approach to playing Kelby adds a charming touch to the role, which makes it easy for me to collaborate with him.

Who would you most like to buy or receive a Secret Santa gift from in the cast?

I would love to buy a gift for Zahra. She’s a big fan of lists, so I’d get her a special notebook for all her different lists, or maybe a head girl badge – because she truly embodies head girl material!

An incomplete nativity scene is central to this episode’s mystery, bringing back memories of school nativities. Did you take part in a nativity at school? Who did you play?

I don’t remember much, but I often ended up at the back of the nativity since I was a bit mischievous in school. They didn’t want me causing trouble at the front!

What’s your favourite Christmas tradition?

I love gathering my kids together for a big lunch. Christmas Eve is particularly special; my kids and their partners all come together, and we enjoy champagne and seafood. I also cherish our Christmas carol service in the afternoon – that’s a lovely tradition for me.