Question
does a bird of paradise come back on its own if it dies.

Answer
Jamie, if the plant is in fact dead, then the answer is no (no resurrection); however if its just the crown that has seemed to die back due to frost or freeze, then there is a good chance there will be regeneration from the corm (the root system), so be patient,cut all the dead crown growth back to soil level and play the waiting game....good luck Nick