The BBC's hit detective drama 'Death in Paradise' returns for its 15th season, bringing a fresh dynamic to the island of Saint Marie. DI Mervin Wilson, played by Don Gilet, is still grappling with the fallout from discovering his brother Solomon, who made off with his belongings after a tense reunion. The encounter has clearly affected Mervin, something his colleagues have noticed as the team tackles new cases.
This week's episode features a guest appearance from Siobhan Finneran, best known for 'Happy Valley', who becomes a suspect after her neighbour is shot dead in his home. Meanwhile, former Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, played by Don Warrington, launches a community initiative to rebuild trust after islanders expressed anger at his decision to walk away from his job, despite their campaign to save him.
Shaquille Ali-Yebuah, who plays DS Benjamin Brice, expressed excitement for the new season, promising a 'new energy' and an 'amazing' guest cast. 'I'm not being biased, but it might be one of the best seasons yet,' he told Radio Times. Alongside Finneran, several other familiar faces have joined the series, though details remain under wraps.
Don Warrington, who has played Selwyn since the series began, previously commented on the public's reaction to his character's potential exit: 'Apparently there has been an outcry... It came as a surprise to realise how deeply the characters had got into the consciousness of the public.' Warrington is known for roles in 'Rising Damp' and 'Doctor Who', and appeared on 'Strictly Come Dancing' in 2008.
Don Gilet, who joined as DI Mervin Wilson in the 2024 Christmas special, reflected on his character's evolution: 'Last year, there was this antagonism between Mervin and the team... But as time has moved on, he's realised that he needs these people. They are now gelling, they're working as a team.' Gilet is best known for 'EastEnders', 'Holby City' and 'Shetland'.
DS Naomi Thomas, played by Shantol Jackson, has become a key member of the team since joining in season 11. Jackson noted: 'Naomi has a better understanding of who Mervin is and how he works... He's very comfortable opening up with Naomi.' The new season promises to explore these relationships further as the detectives solve more murders on the sun-drenched island.
