Why Return to Paradise’s Mackenzie was really to blame for that absolutely crushing Glenn moment

by

Man, that moment when Glenn turned Mackenzie down in Return to Paradise really hit me hard! It was only a few minutes left in the episode, and even though they almost kissed earlier, it wasn’t that shocking. We’ve known all along Glenn’s engaged to Daisy and totally committed to her, so it was tough, but kinda expected. Still stings though!

It wasn’t surprising to see him end things for good with his former fiancé, but giving up their dog, Frankie, and letting Mackenzie take care of him was a really tough decision.

Even with a sad look in her eyes, Mackenzie asking Glenn if he’d miss their dog, Frankie, was incredibly moving. It was a truly heartbreaking moment, especially knowing they were using Frankie as a way to talk about how much they missed each other.

What to Read Next

You’re feeling this awful, anxious feeling because of Mackenzie, but it’s a surprisingly good kind of awful – a beautiful and fulfilling reason to be so worked up.

Viewers may recall Mackenzie from last season. She came across as distant and unemotional, giving the impression she didn’t easily reveal her feelings – or even have many feelings to share.

Okay, so things are really different with DI Mac now. Ever since she confessed her feelings in the last episode, she just can’t seem to get over Glenn, even though he’s clearly not interested. It’s like opening Pandora’s Box – those feelings are out there and she can’t take them back, no matter what!

This episode really highlighted that fact. It felt like a constant reminder of the upcoming wedding, and a painful signal that Mackenzie is on the verge of losing the person she loves forever.

Even though she showed up at his cake tasting by mistake and he kept mentioning his meeting with the client, she was the one who leaned in for a kiss when they unexpectedly found themselves stuck in the bathroom together.

Now that the situation that had almost led to a kiss was over, Mackenzie was ready to face the possibility of being turned down again. She just needed to know what that almost-kiss had meant.

This time, Glenn, who is normally very open and honest, avoided dealing with his complicated feelings. He covered them up by excitedly discussing their honeymoon and making plans for Frankie.

Even though you could still tell she was upset, Mackenzie was the one who kept gently asking me how I was feeling. And honestly, that was so surprising! She’s usually super private and doesn’t really push people to talk about their emotions, so it meant a lot that she was doing that for me.

Watching the usually cold and distant character at Dolphin Cove open up and become vulnerable, even at the risk of getting hurt, is deeply affecting, especially since her honesty isn’t met with the same openness. However, despite the emotional impact, it’s incredibly rewarding to see her grow and change as a person.

It’s heartwarming to see Mackenzie opening up to love, even though it’s new territory for her and currently causing her some pain.

The harder Glenn tries to push her away, the clearer it becomes how strongly he cares for her, and how much pain he’s in. It only intensifies the sadness of them both longing for each other.

It also doesn’t help that Daisy is such a sweet, earnest and loveable character.

With only two episodes left this season, anything could happen – no character is guaranteed to make it through. It’s become obvious that Mackenzie and Glenn’s story is far from over, and simply returning the dog bowl won’t be the end of it.

Return to Paradise is available to watch on BBC on Fridays at 8pm and BBC iPlayer.

The latest issue of Living Legends is now available! You can purchase Ariana & Witches at newsstands or online for only £8.99.

Read More

2025-11-29 00:19