An unlikely crime-fighting duo in Spain
Actor John Hannah and co-star Carolina Bécquer headline the upcoming crime series Benidorm Is Murder, playing Dennis and Rosa, an unconventional pair who annoy local police by taking over investigations in the Spanish seaside resort. Produced by Blackbox Multimedia and Clapperboard Studios, the series is distributed internationally by ZDF Studios.
The show embraces the specific working-class setting of Benidorm. Hannah described the location as a unique architectural and cultural enclave populated by retirees and vacationers. “Not everyone can afford the Riviera or the Caribbees. But they still want sunshine!” Hannah said.
Working-class stories and colourful characters
Created by writer Ian Jarvis, the series features episodic encounters with a wide array of tourists and partygoers—including feuding Take That tribute bands, Irish bachelorettes, comedians, and bingo enthusiasts—without looking down on them. Bécquer noted that the setting works because it reflects the authentic energy of the resort.
The central characters are complete opposites: Dennis is an ex-cop who frequently stays in a Scottish pub, while Rosa is an enthusiastic wannabe actress described by Bécquer as a ray of sunshine. The actors and creators note that the relationship carries a dynamic akin to a father-daughter or brother-sister bond as they get on each other’s nerves and push each other into adventures.
Production status and future plans
While the series incorporates lighter episodic procedural elements, it also features long-term character arcs and a darker narrative turn toward the end involving Dennis’s past. A second season of Benidorm Is Murder is already in development, with both lead actors expressing enthusiasm for exploring the characters further.
Bécquer highlighted the appeal of cozy crime genres for viewers seeking relief from psychologically exhausting content, while Hannah reflected on the show’s value as escapism during challenging times. “Sometimes, people just want a bit of escapism. Who doesn’t want sunshine and beaches when the world is so overcast and cloudy?” Hannah said.
