‘Best detective’ reprises role in Death in Paradise as return date confirmed
Death in Paradise will be back on screens sooner than you think.
Series 15 of Death in Paradise will be broadcast at the end of this month – and fans can’t wait to watch it. The first episode of Series 15 will start airing on January 30, 2026, with the first episode available to watch at 9pm on BBC One.
While the series synopsis is being kept under wraps, fans can look forward to the return of some of their favourite characters. Don Gilet will be back as DI Mervin Wilson, alongside Shantol Jackson as DS Naomi Thomas, Shaquille Ali-Yebuah as Officer Sebastian Rose, and Elizabeth Bourgine as Catherine Bordey.
Don Warrington is also expected to return as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson following his departure from Saint Marie at the end of series 14.
Selwyn lost his job and was initially replaced, but after Catherine launched a petition, the Commissioner was offered his role back. However, much to everyone’s surprise, he decided to reject the job offer and left Saint Marie for the UK.
After Don’s future on the show was thrown into doubt, fans were thrilled to see him feature in both Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise’s Christmas specials.


The show’s lead detective shared an update on Selwyn’s return on social media. Alongside a photo of the Commissioner and Detective Mervin Wilson, Don wrote, “Thank you for the kind words regarding #DeathInParadise Xmas Spesh. See you in 2026 for more drama from Saint Marie.”
Death in Paradise has also hinted at Selwyn’s comeback. Alongside footage of the Commissioner, the programme shared on its official Instagram account: “So that’s something to look forward to in the new year!”
“Chief Commissioner, it is Selwyn Patterson,” the Commissioner said during a clip from the Beyond Paradise festive instalment. “Apologies for calling you during the holidays. But I wanted to know if you’ve found my replacement yet.
“I see…I have been doing some thinking, and I wondered if there was any chance of my returning to the role if it’s still vacant.”

Selwyn Patterson is also expected to be in series 15 (Image: BBC)
Fans have also expressed their excitement about the show’s return, with one writing on social media, “News series 15 starts Friday 30th January at 9pm…roll on.”
Another commented, “Thanks for letting us all know.”
While a third added, “Can’t wait to watch it with my favorite detective.”
Someone else went on, “Best show on the tele.”
Death in Paradise returns on January 30 on BBC One.








