Dolphin Cove, the less than tranquil haven of BBC One’s Return to Paradise, gets another dose of grim reality in “Curl Up and Dye.” This week, a salon becomes a crime scene when three hairdressers stumble upon their boss, Bianca Bailey, lifeless and quite clearly strangled, amid the hair dryers and perm rods. This, of course, means DI Mackenzie Clarke has a new puzzle to solve, just as she’s contemplating a career crossroads.
The immediate cause of death is obvious — strangulation — but the murder weapon remains elusive, adding a wrinkle to Mackenzie’s investigation. While the episode delivers a satisfyingly self-contained mystery for casual viewers, it also advances Mackenzie’s personal narrative in significant ways. Senior Sergeant Philomena Strong (Catherine McClements), clearly recognizing Clarke’s skills, offers her a permanent position in Dolphin Cove. This forces Mackenzie to confront the question that has been simmering beneath the surface: Does she truly belong in this quirky seaside community, or is her future back in the UK?
Return to Paradise continues to deliver its distinct “Aussie twist” on the Death in Paradise formula, offering viewers a satisfying blend of lighthearted procedural and character-driven drama. “Curl Up and Dye” airs Friday, December 6, 2024, at 8:00 PM on BBC One.
