In an exclusive revelation, Death in Paradise star Don Gilet has confirmed the identity of his character's on-screen brother, with actor Daniel Ward stepping into the role of Solomon. This development coincides with the debut of new Sergeant Mattie Fletcher, portrayed by Catherine Garton, in the latest series of the beloved BBC drama.
A Warm Tribute to a Familiar Face
Don Gilet, who plays DI Mervin Wilson, has spoken warmly about working with Daniel Ward as his on-screen sibling, Solomon. In a recent interview with Reach PLC and other media outlets, Gilet praised Ward's dedication to the craft, noting his deep dive into the character's writing and background.
"It's great working with Daniel," Gilet shared. "I didn't realise until working with him, he also writes, so he's one of those people who really loves to do a deep dive into the writing and the character. So it was really good to play with a guy who's got a sense of where the writing comes from, the root of the writing."
Opposites Attract in Dramatic Fashion
Gilet elaborated on the dynamic between Mervin and Solomon, describing them as polar opposites. "But I mean in terms of the characters we play, Mervyn and Solomon as brothers, couldn't be any more opposed, which makes the drama, which makes the entertainment," he explained, as reported by the Express.
He added, "He's always wanted family. He didn't think he had anything beyond the mother that he came searching for, and unfortunately, the timing of it, she had already died by the time he got there. But to find a brother, it was a dream he never even thought he could have, and he finds out that he's so opposite to him in every way possible. He's a larger-than-life character."
Character Contrasts and Familial Challenges
Gilet highlighted the stark differences in their personalities, noting that Mervin prefers to remain understated, while Solomon is energetic and confrontational. "Mervyn isn't the sort of character that wants to sort of make his presence known in many ways. It works for his work, actually, that he can just slip in and slip out and things like that," the former soap star said.
"But Solomon is all the family he needs, very much in terms of how much energy he's got, and he's just at odds with everything every which way that Mervyn would like a brother to be; he is not that, and I think it's enjoyable watching how they work together or not, as the case may be."
A Reunion That Doesn't Go as Planned
The initial encounter between Mervin and Solomon is fraught with tension, as Gilet hinted: "And the one thing that he wanted, he is now wondering, you know, 'Be careful what you wish for'. But I suppose this is the familial imperative he has that he's always wanted. It's going to be a challenge to continue to embrace him as a member of his family."
New Additions to the Saint Marie Police Force
Solomon isn't the only new face in the series. The Saint Marie police department welcomes Sergeant Mattie Fletcher, played by Catherine Garton, who takes over from Darlene Curtis, previously portrayed by Ginny Holder. This change adds fresh dynamics to the team as they tackle new cases.
Tonight's Episode Synopsis
The upcoming episode promises intrigue and mystery. "The commissioner's return to the department is disrupted by a suspicious incident at Government House, in which a man has fallen from the roof to his death. It looks like a suicide, but DI Mervin Wilson suspects foul play," the synopsis reveals.
It continues, "No one was on the roof with the victim when he fell, and he'd locked the roof door behind him. Away from the investigation, Mervin is anxious to finally meet his half-brother Solomon, the other son of the mother he never knew."
Broadcast Details
Death in Paradise will be broadcast on Friday on BBC One, offering viewers a blend of crime-solving and personal drama as Mervin navigates both a mysterious case and a complicated family reunion.
