A pair of devoted Death in Paradise enthusiasts have offered a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the beloved BBC detective drama, revealing the authentic personalities of its celebrated cast members. Mike Mitchell and his wife Liz, whose passion for the series blossomed during lockdown, embarked on an extraordinary journey to the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, where the show is filmed, to fulfill their dream of appearing as extras.
From Viewers to On-Screen Participants
Filmed against the breathtaking backdrop of Guadeloupe, Death in Paradise has captivated audiences for over a decade, currently featuring Don Gilet as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson. The Mitchells, self-described "stans" of the programme, travelled to the Caribbean in 2022 and boldly approached producers with a request to join the cast as background actors. To their immense delight, they were warmly welcomed onto the fictional island of Saint Marie, where they quickly found themselves interacting with the show's leading stars.
Intimate Encounters with Commissioner Selwyn Patterson
Don Warrington, who has portrayed Commissioner Selwyn Patterson since the series' inception in 2011, proved to be exceptionally approachable. Mike Mitchell recounted to the Express how the esteemed actor, with an impressive portfolio of theatre and film credits, would frequently join them for evening drinks at their hotel bar. "We've met Don Warrington," Mike shared. "Don used to come and join us for a drink in the bar at the hotel in the evening. He'd go to the hotel and have a meal, on his own usually, and then he'd come to the bar where we were sitting. We'd sit and drink rum together and tell stories."
Encouragement from Former Detective Inspector Neville Parker
The couple also had the pleasure of meeting Ralf Little, renowned for his role in The Royle Family and his portrayal of DI Neville Parker from 2020 until his departure in 2024. Mike recalled a particularly supportive moment as they prepared for their on-screen debut. "Ralf came and stood next to us and he said, 'Good luck. I hope it goes well.' He was very encouraging. Afterwards we all just had a bit of a chit-chat."
Lasting Friendship with Officer Darlene Curtis
Beyond these encounters, Mike and Liz met several other cast members, including Shantol Jackson (DS Naomi Thomas), Ginny Holder (Officer Darlene Curtis), and Tahj Miles (Officer Marlon Pryce). Among them, they formed a lasting bond with Ginny Holder. "We stayed in touch with Ginny, she still messages us now," Mike revealed. "They're all really nice people."
Although Ginny Holder's character, Darlene Curtis, has since departed the series, the BBC expressed gratitude for her contributions, stating: "Sadly, we're saying goodbye to Darlene this series. Ginny Holder has been a much-loved cast member, and we're hugely grateful to her for bringing her talent, personality, and energy to Officer Darlene Curtis." Fortunately for her admirers, Holder continues to act, recently appearing in the new series of Midsomer Murders.
Return Visits and Continued Adventures
Following their successful 2022 experience, the Mitchells returned to Guadeloupe in 2024, where they encountered current lead actor Don Gilet, whose performance as Mervin Wilson has been praised by some as the "greatest inspector" in the show's history. They also crossed paths with the beloved Élizabeth Bourgine, who plays bar owner Catherine Bordey, as the series celebrated its fifteenth season.
This heartwarming account from Mike and Liz Mitchell not only highlights the genuine camaraderie among the Death in Paradise cast but also underscores the profound connection between the show and its dedicated fanbase, transforming ordinary viewers into integral parts of the Saint Marie community.
