Death in Paradise kicked off its latest season with the introduction of DI Mervin Wilson, played by Don Gilet, marking another chapter for the beloved BBC detective series. With audiences reeling from the New Year blues, there's no doubt the charm of this coastal whodunit continues to draw viewers back to the fictional paradise of Saint Marie, setting the stage for dark deeds under the Caribbean sun.
Gilet's portrayal of the lead character brings fresh energy as he steps firmly onto the sandy shores, swapping roles with Ralf Little, who previously played Neville Parker. The 58-year-old actor is known for his time as Lucas Johnson on EastEnders and his role on 55 Degrees North, but his character DI Wilson introduces new traits to the show. He showcases both charisma and grumpiness, embodying the quintessential detective who's seen plenty of the world yet finds himself frustrated by the slower pace of island life.
The inaugural episode, airing on 31 January 2025, aptly sets the scene with Wilson intent on leaving Saint Marie behind, only to be lured back by the mystery surrounding the death of Officer Benjamin Brice (played by Anthony Abraham). With the series continuing its reliable theme of interconnected mysteries, Brice's death from what appears to be a biking accident raises red flags for Wilson, who brings his London sensibilities to the tranquil island.
While this latest installment doesn't shy away from familiar tropes—such as arriving to tie up loose ends—it is Gilet's sharp wit and dry humor sprinkled throughout the plot twists, including the involvement of stolen valuable stamps, which brings the story alive. No one is really watching Death in Paradise for its complex narratives. Instead, the comfort lies within recognizing the limitations—and joys—of life on Saint Marie.
But the real heart of the show lies not just within the mysteries themselves but among the signature ensemble characters who help him solve them. Chief Selwyn Patterson (Don Warrington) grapples with his job potentially being cut; meanwhile, DS Naomi Thomas (Shantol Jackson) delights in Wilson's adjustment to island life, often teasing him about his complaints, like the lack of food delivery apps and subpar bacon sandwiches.
While Wilson integrates with the local team, fans will feel the emotional stakes rising as the plot suggests his mother’s death may not have been accidental, hinting at larger mysteries tied to his past personally rather than just professionally.
Reported by BBC, Gilet's performance has been met with enthusiasm, with critics expressing hope for his long-term involvement. 'Gilet has taken to the job like a natural,' they noted, reinforcing the anticipation surrounding Wilson’s character development. Viewers yearning for continuity amid the cast changes might just find their wishes fulfilled as they watch Gilet navigate the investigations with the same flair as before.
With Wilson’s first foray set amid the backdrop of crime marred with warmth and humor, the next steps seem promising. The question remains: can Gilet lift the legacy of detectives before him and leave his indelible mark on the show's narrative?
Death in Paradise airs weekly, and for fans eagerly counting the days to see how Wilson’s story continues to unravel, one thing is for sure—this latest detective is here to make quite the impression.