Death in Paradise star Don Warrington has publicly commended the long-running BBC detective series for its groundbreaking casting of two Black lead actors, describing the move as the programme taking "giant steps in giving a different picture of the world".
A Landmark Moment for Representation
The 74-year-old actor, who portrays the beloved Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, made his remarks in a recent interview with Radio Times as the show prepares to launch its fifteenth series later this month. Warrington's character, whose future appeared uncertain at the end of the previous series, delighted viewers with a surprise appearance in the Beyond Paradise 2025 Christmas special.
Historic Casting Decisions
Warrington will return to the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie alongside Don Gilet, who reprises his role as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson. This pairing marks a historic moment for the series, with Gilet becoming the first Black actor to take the lead detective role since the show's inception in 2011.
"Everyone realised the world had changed so we had to change with it," Warrington told Radio Times. "And it has given the series a richness culturally."
The veteran actor elaborated on the significance of this development, stating: "What we are trying to do here is present people of colour in a way that is unclichéd – they are simply people getting on with the job and in that sense their colour is irrelevant."
Television Playing Catch-Up
Warrington offered a broader critique of the television industry's approach to representation, noting that "television is behind the times". He observed that "what people are living on the streets is quite different from what they see on television", suggesting that Death in Paradise represents important progress in bridging this gap.
What to Expect in Series Fifteen
The upcoming series will continue to explore DI Wilson's adjustment to life on Saint Marie while he attempts to reconnect with his recently discovered half-brother Solomon, portrayed by television newcomer Daniel Ward. Meanwhile, Commissioner Patterson must confront the consequences of his recent absence and work to regain the trust of the island community.
New Faces on Saint Marie
The police station will welcome another new recruit with Sergeant Mattie Fletcher, played by Catherine Garton, attempting to settle into her role while secrets from her past gradually come to light. This addition continues the show's tradition of introducing fresh characters while maintaining its core ensemble.
A Legacy of Detective Leads
Death in Paradise has seen several actors take the lead detective role since its debut. The series began with comedian Ben Miller in the starring role, followed by Kris Marshall in the third season. Ardal O'Hanlon assumed the position in season six, with Ralf Little taking over three series later and enjoying a five-season tenure before passing the baton to Gilet in 2024.
The fifteenth series of Death in Paradise returns to BBC One on Friday 30 January, continuing its tradition of sun-soaked mysteries while breaking new ground in on-screen representation.
