Death in Paradise viewers are urging producers to avoid a romantic storyline for the new lead detective, DI Mervin Wilson, played by Don Gilet. The 59-year-old actor joined the BBC series at the end of 2024, replacing DI Neville Parker (Ralf Little). Since his arrival, fans have seen Mervin solve several cases, including his mother's death, and discover a long-lost brother and niece.
On Reddit, a fan shared an image of Mervin with DS Naomi Thomas (Shantol Jackson) and wrote: 'Loving Mervin's run as DI so far, but I really hope they don't do any romance plotline with them.' The post quickly garnered support, with one commenter saying: 'I completely agree with you regarding the romantic storyline.' Another added: 'I'm really loving Mervin... I agree about the romance. It's lazy.'
A third fan wrote: 'Yes! Love the developing dynamics as they are among the team. Do. NOT. Want. Romance. It cheapens everything in terms of the plot writing and character developments.' Others praised the focus on family dynamics instead, with one viewer noting: 'I appreciate that the family dynamic is featured in his personal life rather than a relationship dynamic.'
While no romantic plot appears imminent for Mervin, Don Gilet's real-life partner, actress Siobhan Finneran, made a guest appearance on Death in Paradise earlier this year. Finneran, known for roles in Happy Valley and Downton Abbey, played Fleur Edwards. Gilet told This Morning that she 'loved doing it.' The couple maintain separate households, with Finneran explaining to The Times: 'That's just the way it is... He's out of the country for seven months a year doing Death in Paradise anyway.'
