Fans of the beloved BBC crime drama Death in Paradise experienced quite the rollercoaster on Friday, March 14, 2025, as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson (Don Warrington) made a triumphant return to his roots—this time, donning his uniform and arresting his own replacement, Sterling Fox (Trieve Blackwood-Cambridge), amid rising tensions on the fictional island of Saint Marie.
Viewers had watched with concern as Patterson's exit was primarily attributed to financial constraints affecting the island's law enforcement budget. His successor, Fox, had swiftly rubbed the police force the wrong way, creating frustration among both officers and the community. The drama intensified as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet) sought to investigate his mother Dorna's suspicious death, which had been reported as drowning at sea. With Fox urging him to close the case, Wilson's quest for justice—and the truth—was at risk of being quelled.
Determined to aid Wilson, Selwyn decided to intervene. The episode took viewers by surprise as Patterson decided to arrest Fox for allegedly damaging his car. This ploy allowed Wilson some breathing room to continue his investigation. Patterson approached Fox at the police station, and with uncharacteristic bravado, delivered his line: "We are here, Mr. Fox, because I am going to arrest you." Fox’s incredulous response—"You are going to what?"—added to the tension of the scene.
"For the damage you caused my car," Patterson coolly explained before turning to Mervin, humorously advising him he could stretch the arrest procedure throughout the day, urging him to dig deep and solve the case concerning his mother's death.
The episode concluded with fans holding their breath for more, as teased glimpses indicated Patterson may be offered his job back, reviving hopes for his return as commissioner of Saint Marie, and reigniting excitement for the upcoming series finale airing on March 28, 2025.
Social media exploded with responses as fans expressed their elation and eagerness for Patterson's return. One fan exclaimed, "GET HIM SELWYN, THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE LEGEND!" Another added, "Selwyn has always been the best character," showcasing the adoration for Patterson among the show's following. Fans rallied behind the nostalgic sentiments, reflecting on his leadership and the magnetic pull of his character.
Even Mayor Catherine Bordey (Élizabeth Bourgine) recognized the need for Patterson's involvement, encouraging him to support Wilson. The tension between Selwyn’s authority and his current state of disorganization took center stage as he expressed doubts about holding sway with the team anymore. "People have to get used to not relying on me like they did," he lamented.
Yet, Catherine countered, her words inspiring Selwyn in the closing moments of the episode. "Is this really how you want this all to end? By turning your back on everything you used to stand for?" Her heartfelt plea catalyzed Selwyn's eventual commitment to assist Mervin and the investigation.
Taking matters creatively, Selwyn’s arrest of Fox not only gave him the time needed to assist Mervin but also allowed the investigation to take flight as the detectives unearthed old letters written by Dorna, which led them to discover her tragic murder at the hands of old acquaintances Roy Palmer and Brianna.
Patterson's actions did not merely serve as another plot twist; they acted as the conduit through which closure could potentially be found for Mervin's family. Despite the investigation’s turmoil, Mervin stood firm against Fox’s directives and revealed his perspective, saying, "With respect, Mr. Fox, I’d like to point out...that if we did things your way, a man guilty of murder would be walking free right now." The drama swirled as it became evident the hint of power shift, challenging Fox’s position and casting doubt on his authority.
Fan responses roared across social media, reaffirming the love for Selwyn’s character and the leadership he brought to the show throughout its years. "YES SELWYN! Definitely just shouted at my TV in excitement," echoed throughout numerous viewers’ feeds, alongside messages illustrating Selwyn's enduring charm and leadership traits.
Set to air its grand finale, Death in Paradise continues to capture the hearts of audiences, creating memorable narratives intertwined with laughter, suspense, and thrilling crime-solving. With the suspense surrounding Selwyn's future and return to his rightful position, viewers await the culmination of the series eagerly, hopeful for the beloved character's lasting presence on the island.