Death in Paradise star Don Warrington, who plays Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, has given fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse as filming for the new season gets underway. The 72-year-old actor shared several snaps on Instagram, including one of him next to a police car with Ginny Holder's character Darlene Curtis, and a general view of the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie filled with cast and crew.
The update comes as Don Gilet gears up to replace Ralf Little as the lead detective. Gilet, 57, will debut as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson in a feature-length Christmas special later this year, before a full series in 2025. His character arrives from London and is initially unimpressed with his new surroundings.
Gilet, known for roles in EastEnders and Sherwood, has begun filming in Guadeloupe alongside regulars including Don Warrington, Shantol Jackson, Ginny Holder, Élizabeth Bourgine and Danny John-Jules. Although not clearly visible in Warrington's photos, some fans speculated that a figure in one image could be Gilet.
Gilet said of his casting: 'Being offered the new lead role in Death in Paradise feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands. This is a big show, with a big heart and the love continually grows for it.' He added that he intends to remain 'grateful, humbled and dedicated'.
The casting has divided fans; some praised the historic choice of the first lead actor of colour, while others called it a 'missed opportunity' not to cast a woman. Gilet previously appeared on the show in 2015 as a murderer, which some eagle-eyed viewers noted with confusion.
