First look at new Death In Paradise with Don Gilet taking over as star posts snaps from set
Death In Paradise star Don Warrington has whipped his fans into a frenzy by sharing behind-the-scenes photos as filming kicks off for the upcoming series. BBC's beloved drama, Death In Paradise, is in for a shakeup, following Ralf Little's decision to exit his role as DI Neville Parker after five years.
Ralf was the longest-reigning actor in the lead role, taking over from former stars Ben Miller, Kris Marshall and Ardal O'Hanlon. Smashing onto the scene will be former EastEnders villain Don Gilet, set to make his grand entrance in this year's Christmas special.
In photographs shared by Don Warrington, who brings Commissioner Selwyn Patterson to life in the detective series, he can be seen in character, wandering the tropical streets of Guadeloupe in the southern Caribbean Sea - the stunning location where the series is filmed. Don steps out of a bright yellow police van, surrounded by the camera crew, with the charming caption "Back to work #deathinparadise."
Fans immediately flooded the comments section of his post, with one viewer gushing: "Ahhhh, this is why I love the winter season, Christmas etc.. Just to watch Death in Paradise." Another fan chimed in exclaiming, "Delighted to hear it, Commissioner," reports the Mirror.
Another simply couldn't contain their excitement writing, "Can't wait for new series." A fourth viewer couldn't help but speculate about the upcoming series, posting: "Introducing the new Inspector to the police station?"
Another eager fan chimed in with: "Yay can't wait for the new season to start and the Christmas show as well," while another remarked: "That's quite an operation behind the scenes making this great show."
Later this year, we'll see Don Gilet make his debut as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson. The character hails from London and isn't exactly thrilled with his new post on the tropical island of Saint Marie.
The actor expressed what a joy it is to join Death in Paradise, stating: "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. It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled and dedicated."
"Even during those testing times when every sinew is screaming at me to run off the set and dive into the sea, swimming pool or an ice-cold beer whichever happens to be closer at the time."
Best known for his portrayal of Albert Square murderer Lucas Johnson, Gilet's impressive acting credits include appearances in Holby City, The Loch, Sherwood and Doctor Who. He even had a guest stint in Death in Paradise back in 2015, playing a murderer in a series four episode.
