Death in Paradise Gets First International Adaptation in Croatia

The hit international crime drama "Death in Paradise" is officially getting its very first international adaptation. The beloved British series, which has captivated audiences worldwide for over a decade, is heading to Croatia for a fresh, non-English take on its successful formula. Titled "Ubojstvo u raju," the upcoming adaptation will transport viewers to the picturesque Croatian island of Brač, trading the Caribbean sun for the stunning landscapes of the Adriatic Sea.

While the original production is a staple of BBC One, created by Robert Thorogood and produced by Red Planet Pictures, the Croatian version is being brought to life locally. CGM Films, the production company behind "Sram," has secured the rights to produce the series for HRT1. The creative team at the helm includes producers Bruno Mustić and Ivan Lovreček, alongside director Jelena Gavrilović, who will help steer the artistic vision of the project.

In a joint statement, producers Mustić and Lovreček expressed their enthusiasm for bringing such a globally recognized property to their home country. They noted that "Death in Paradise" is one of the BBC's most successful programs and emphasized their commitment to preserving its core elements. The adaptation will feature the trademark blend of intricate murder mysteries, lighthearted humor, emotional warmth, and a strong sense of place, tailored specifically for a Croatian audience.

The creative approach involves adapting the global format to fit seamlessly into Croatian culture. The characters and criminal cases will be authentically rooted in the unique lifestyle of Adriatic island communities. This localization strategy ensures that while the structure remains familiar to fans of the franchise, the narrative will feel entirely authentic and grounded in local traditions and regional flavor.

The legacy of the original "Death in Paradise" provides a strong foundation for this new venture. Fifteen years after its initial UK premiere, the franchise continues to thrive, with its sixteenth series currently in production and an early renewal already secured for a seventeenth season. Furthermore, the brand has successfully spawned two major spin-off series, "Beyond Paradise" and "Return to Paradise," demonstrating its enduring appeal across more than 230 territories worldwide.

As pre-production moves forward, principal photography for "Ubojstvo u raju" is officially planned to start in the spring of 2027. Executives and creators alike are optimistic about the project's potential to resonate with viewers both locally and internationally, proving that a compelling whodunnit mystery can cross linguistic and cultural boundaries while maintaining the heart and soul that made the original series a global phenomenon.