BBC Death in Paradise confirms release date for Christmas special in exciting announcement
The BBC has finally confirmed when the Death in Paradise Christmas special will air, as Don Gilet takes on the role of the lead detective.
The BBC has finally confirmed when the Death in Paradise Christmas special will air, as Don Gilet takes on the role of the lead detective.
A release date for the Death in Paradise Christmas special has finally been confirmed.
The festive edition of the hit BBC series will hit screens in late December, marking Don Gilet’s debut as the new lead detective.
Don will be portraying DI Mervin Wilson, who is now in charge of the Saint Marie police department following the exit of DI Neville Parker, played by Ralf Little, at the end of season 13.
There isn’t long to wait to see the introduction of DI Wilson. The Death in Paradise Christmas special will air on Sunday 22 December on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 8.30pm.
The festive episode comes after new spin-off Return to Paradise recently finished airing, with the show’s other spin-off, Beyond Paradise, also airing a Christmas special this December.
The Death in Paradise Christmas special will air in late December (Image: BBC)
Joining Don in the Christmas special is Death in Paradise regulars Don Warrington, Shantol Jackson, Ginny Holder, Elizabeth Bourgine and Danny John-Jules. They are all expected to be returning in the show’s 14th season too, which will air in 2025.
The synopsis for the Death in Paradise Christmas special reads:”When holiday maker Stuart Fullwell (Marcus Brigstocke), fresh from performing karaoke dressed as Santa, is found shot dead on the beach by a young boy Ollie – son of Jamie (Jim Howick) – the Saint Marie police team kick into action.
“But with no Detective Inspector in place of the recently departed Neville Parker, are they capable of tackling such a big case?
“With the pressure mounting, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson (Don Warrington) is relieved to receive some encouraging news as he learns a British detective is holidaying on the island.
“Following a somewhat disappointing solo trip, DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet) is aboard a flight back home to London ready to take off, though is informed by his boss that he’s to be seconded to Honoré, whether he likes it or not…”
Meanwhile, ex-EastEnders star Don said of his new role: “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.”
