Death in Paradise fans react as 'blunt' new detective Mervin Wilson makes debut
On Sunday night, Death in Paradise saw former soap star Don Gilet step into the shoes of Ralf Little, as he became the latest detective in the BBC show. DI Mervin, was told by his boss back in London that he'd be helping the police in Saint Marie solve the murders of two men dressed as Santa.
However, after already having a bad holiday on the island, the DI made it clear he was less than thrilled to be dragged into an investigation. While dealing with the Saint Marie team, viewers were quick mention his condescending and rude characteristics.
Taking to Twitter, one person said: "Blunt and rude but why do I lowkey love it #DeathInParadise." Someone else commented: "Ok, I love how blunt the new detective is."
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Another viewer shared: "I'm loving Mervin's bluntness, but I don't think his new colleagues are." While another shared: "Well, I like the new detective . Yes, he's rude but he's also interesting."
Someone else tweeted: "I really like Mervin, he's exactly the kind of character I hoped they'd get , to change up the show again. A Luther type to be mean and moody but gets his heart melted by the Island."
Although not everyone was as keen on his attitude as one person said: "Mervin’s a bit rude, especially to the ladies! #DeathInParadise." Another commented: "Mervin really isn’t making a good impression #DeathInParadise."
In the end, he managed to work out who was behind the deaths and was seen driving away from the island, adamant to head back to London. Although as Don is set to be the new detective in the upcoming series, it looks as though he won't be going too far.
Speaking about joining the long-running BBC show, the actor confessed he was scared, aware of how beloved the programme is. When asked how it felt to be stepping into the Detective Inspector shoes for the first time, he said: "I'm sure it won't be a surprise to say that it was both exciting and terrifying in equal measure.
"I liken it to one of those scary rides at a theme park. I'm going on it, and I know it's going to be scary, but I'm going to do it. You’re daring yourself. Then you sit in the seat going, “What have I just let myself in for?!” But it was exciting because I knew I was embarking on this new journey."
When he found out he got the role, Don confessed it was a mixture of emotions, from relief to surprise. He added: "It’s a weird feeling for an actor when you get any job, no matter what role it is, because they like your craft and what you did in the audition.
"When I was in the room, there were four people to impress, and I managed to do it. It was a great reminder to me that, yeah, you can still do this. It felt like a little personal air-punch-without-anyone-looking moment."
Death in Paradise's Christmas special is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
