Fans of the sun-soaked crime drama Death in Paradise are marking their calendars, as the BBC has confirmed the highly anticipated return of its fifteenth series. The show is set to make its comeback on Friday, 30 January 2026, with episodes airing at the familiar time of 9pm on BBC One.
Who's Returning to Saint Marie?
The new series will see the welcome return of several beloved characters to the fictional island of Saint Marie. Leading the cast once more is Don Gilet, reprising his role as the sharp-witted Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson. He will be joined by his trusted team, including Shantol Jackson as DS Naomi Thomas and Shaquille Ali-Yebuah as Officer Sebastian Rose.
Furthermore, the iconic bar owner Catherine Bordey, played by Elizabeth Bourgine, will also be back serving drinks and dispensing wisdom. While plot details for the new series are being kept firmly under wraps, the ensemble promises more intriguing mysteries against the show's picturesque Caribbean backdrop.
Commissioner Patterson's Surprising Comeback
In a significant development for series 15, Don Warrington is tipped to return as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson. This follows his dramatic exit at the end of series 14, where he was ousted from his position. After a petition led by Catherine, he was offered his job back but surprisingly declined, leaving Saint Marie for the UK.
His potential return was hinted at in the recent Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise Christmas specials. In a snippet from the festive episode, Selwyn was heard calling the Chief Commissioner, asking: "I wondered if there was any chance of my returning to the role if it's still vacant." The show's official Instagram account teased the development, posting: "So that's something to look forward to in the new year!"
Fan Excitement Reaches Fever Pitch
Anticipation for the new series is sky-high among the show's dedicated fanbase. Reacting to the news on social media, one viewer exclaimed, "Can't wait to watch it with my favourite detective," while another simply declared it the "Best show on the telly."
Don Gilet himself stoked excitement, sharing a teaser on social media alongside a photo with the Commissioner. He posted: "Thank you for the kind words regarding #DeathInParadise Xmas Spesh. See you in 2026 for more drama from Saint Marie."
With a stellar cast reassembled and the promise of fresh, captivating cases, Death in Paradise Series 15 is poised to deliver the perfect blend of mystery and escapism when it arrives on 30 January 2026.
