It’s a masterclass in setting up a long-running detective series: memorable characters, a gorgeous but treacherous location, and a puzzle that respects the viewer’s intelligence. Watching Poole sweat through his suit jacket while logically dismantling an impossible murder is the perfect introduction to one of the most beloved cozy crime shows of the modern era.

The killer turns out to be Rebecca, acting out of moral outrage — but the arrest leaves other secrets unresolved, setting up character arcs for the series. For new viewers, S01E01 is a perfect pilot. It establishes:

Murder on the Saint Marie Express (though sometimes listed simply as “Episode 1” or “Arrival”) Original air date: October 25, 2011 Writer: Robert Thorogood Director: Charles Palmer

The first episode is also available as part of the Death in Paradise Season 1 DVD/Blu-ray box set. Regardless of how you arrived at the typo “deathinparadises01all,” the correct destination is clear: Season 1, Episode 1 of Death in Paradise .

After insisting the crime scene be preserved despite the 90°F heat, Poole clashes with Camille, who sees him as a stiff, arrogant outsider. But the episode’s genius lies in showing that his methodical, detail-obsessed approach — combined with a shockingly sharp understanding of human behavior — cracks the case.

Audience figures exceeded 7 million in the UK overnight ratings — rare for a new drama at the time. This success guaranteed a full first season and eventually spawned a global franchise, including spin-offs like Beyond Paradise (UK) and Return to Paradise (Australia).