Death In Paradise Welcomes Star-Studded Cast For 2026 Return

The beloved BBC detective series Death in Paradise is preparing to make waves once again as it returns for its fifteenth season, promising a vibrant mix of new faces, familiar favorites, and a host of intricate murder mysteries set against the sun-drenched backdrop of Saint Marie. The new season is set to premiere on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, inviting fans old and new back to the idyllic Caribbean island that’s become synonymous with quirky investigations and endearing character dynamics.

Anticipation for the upcoming series has been stoked by the recent release of the official trailer on the show’s Instagram page, as reported by Digital Spy. The teaser offers tantalizing glimpses of both returning stars and a parade of high-profile guest actors, setting the stage for what looks to be a season packed with surprises, emotional twists, and, of course, a slew of befuddling murder cases.

Among the most talked-about additions this season is Siobhan Finneran, best known for her roles in Happy Valley and Benidorm. Finneran’s appearance in the trailer has already generated buzz, though details about her character remain closely guarded. She is seen only briefly, her expression strained and nervous—a hint, perhaps, of the drama to come. She joins a star-studded roster of guest actors, including Sarah Hadland of Miranda fame, Steffan Rhodri from Gavin and Stacey, Ben Willbond from Ghosts, and Scarlett Alice Johnson, who played Vicki Fowler in EastEnders. Other notable guest stars this season include Ace Bhatti (Malpractice), Sean Delaney (Killing Eve), Gary Wilmot, Hermione Norris, Julian Rhind-Tutt, and more, as listed by Digital Spy and The Mirror.

Returning to the heart of Saint Marie’s police force is Don Gilet, reprising his role as DI Mervin Wilson. Gilet, now firmly established as the show’s lead detective, faces a dual challenge: solving a new string of murders while navigating the complexities of a newly discovered family bond. His character’s evolving relationship with half-brother Solomon Clarke, played by Daniel Ward, will form a central emotional thread throughout the season. As described in the official BBC synopsis, “Whilst attempting to connect with his recently discovered half-brother Solomon, Mervin’s newfound familial happiness soon turns to frustration as he discovers the pair are not quite as similar as he hoped they might be.”

The dynamic between Wilson and Solomon is expected to bring both humor and tension to the series, with early glimpses from the trailer showing moments of both camaraderie and exasperation. According to Radio Times, not everything is smooth sailing for the pair, and audiences can expect their relationship to be tested by the pressures of police work and personal differences.

Meanwhile, another major storyline centers on the return of Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, portrayed by the ever-popular Don Warrington. After a recent absence from his post, Selwyn faces the uphill task of reclaiming his authority and the trust of the island’s residents. The BBC synopsis notes, “Returning Commissioner Selwyn Patterson confronts the impact of his recent period of absence, and after some tough love from old friend Catherine Bordey, he’s determined to win back the trust of the island.” Elizabeth Bourgine returns as Catherine Bordey, providing both support and a dose of reality to Selwyn as he reestablishes himself within the community.

The regular team is rounded out by Shaquille Ali-Yebuah as Officer Sebastian Rose and Shantol Jackson as DS Naomi Thomas, both of whom play pivotal roles in integrating a new recruit into the fold. That recruit is Sergeant Mattie Fletcher, played by Catherine Garton, who brings a fresh energy to the squad. Garton describes her character as “sassy, but she’s like your big sister who will tell you what’s what, but you can also come to her if you need to. You can have a laugh with her. She’s very passionate about things, about her work and about the people that she grows to love, especially in the team. She’s also very determined, almost too determined sometimes…” (Metro).

Mattie Fletcher’s arrival comes as Ginny Holder’s Officer Darlene Curtis departs after seven years on the show. The series paid tribute to Holder’s contribution with a heartfelt Instagram post: “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. We wish her all the best—maybe we’ll catch up with her in Saint Marie down the line!”

The 15th series promises to deliver the same blend of sun-soaked scenery, lighthearted banter, and head-scratching cases that have become the show’s trademark. The BBC teases “a myriad of baffling cases,” with the trailer hinting at everything from high-stakes threats to moments of genuine peril—at one point, DI Mervin Wilson is seen tied to a chair, a testament to the unpredictable dangers that lurk beneath Saint Marie’s picturesque surface.

As always, the show’s appeal lies not just in its clever mysteries, but in the chemistry among its cast and the warmth of its island setting. The return of familiar characters alongside a bumper crop of guest stars looks set to keep viewers entertained, while new dynamics—particularly the addition of Mattie Fletcher and the evolving Wilson-Clarke brotherhood—promise to add fresh layers to the ensemble.

For fans eager to dive back into the world of Death in Paradise, the wait is nearly over. With its mix of returning favorites, exciting newcomers, and a commitment to both heart and humor, the fifteenth season looks poised to continue the show’s legacy as one of British television’s most reliable sources of escapist fun. Whether you’re tuning in for the mysteries, the character arcs, or simply to soak up some virtual sunshine, Saint Marie is ready to welcome you back.

With the stage set and expectations high, all eyes will be on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on January 30, as Death in Paradise embarks on its next sunlit chapter.