Death in Paradise viewers are calling for Detective Sergeant Naomi Thomas to take the lead as the show's first female Detective Inspector, following the conclusion of series 15.
The BBC crime drama ended its latest run with DI Mervin (Don Gilet) deciding to let his niece remain with him on the island while her father, his brother Solomon (Daniel Ward), finished his prison sentence. Elsewhere in the series, the new DI grew closer to DS Naomi Thomas (Shantol Jackson), often turning to her for advice and guidance as they solved crimes together.
Fans demand a shake-up for Saint Marie
During a discussion thread on Reddit, one person commented: "Although I adore Don Gilet/Mervin, I think it's time for a female inspector. Naomi would be awesome as Inspector, with Mattie as her Sgt. I really hope that before the series ends and/or she leaves, they give the character a chance to advance."
Another viewer added: "I would love for Naomi to be the DI at some time." A third wrote: "She's really spot on. I hope the writers show more of her investigative skills this season." In another thread, someone shared: "I really hope when there is a next inspector that Naomi gets the nod. Watching her navigate being in charge would make a good story."
A first female DI on the way?
The demand for a change comes after Don Gilet joined the show in 2024, following the exit of Ralf Little, who played DI Neville Parker for four years. As every lead DI since the series began has been male, the question now is whether the show will introduce its first female DI.
Earlier this year, it was confirmed that the BBC drama has been recommissioned for two more series, along with two more Christmas specials. Speaking about the news, Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, said: "Death in Paradise is a global phenomenon and we are incredibly proud to have it on the BBC, where it goes from strength to strength. It's with great pleasure that we share the news that we'll be returning to Saint Marie for two more sun-soaked series and Christmas specials."
Tim Key, Executive Producer at Red Planet Pictures, added: "We remain incredibly proud of the show and the team that makes it, and delighted that the audience continue to love it as much as we do. The response to our latest series has been wonderful and we can't wait to get started again - we've got something very special lined up to kick off our 16th season, with a big surprise setting it up in our Christmas special. Watch this space..."
Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
