BBC Death in Paradise star pays tribute to co-stars after exit as return confirmed
Death in Paradise star Ginny Holder has shared a heartfelt message with fans after it was confirmed she is leaving the BBC series
Death in Paradise actress Ginny Holder has spoken out for the first time following confirmation of her departure from the BBC series. Ginny, who portrayed Darlene Curtis for seven years, turned to Instagram to honour her colleagues and express gratitude to viewers for their unwavering support.
Accompanying a compilation of scenes from the programme, Ginny wrote, “Thank you so much to the BBC and Red Planet Pictures for giving me the absolute gift of playing Darlene. I loved her deeply, and saying goodbye to her has been far more emotional than I ever expected – I really do miss her.
“Thank you to the incredible cast and crew of Death in Paradise – such a talented, kind, and joyful group of people. Working alongside you all has been a privilege and a pleasure, and I’ll cherish those memories forever.
“And a very special thank you to James Hall for writing such an amazing character. Darlene truly lifted straight off the page, and I’m so grateful to have been her voice.”
She wrapped up her message by saying, “And finally, the biggest thank you to the fans. Your love and support for Darlene has meant the world to me. Being nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the TV Times Awards was honestly so humbling, and I’m beyond grateful. Big love to you all, you’ve made this journey unforgettable,” reports the Express.
Darlene Curtis won’t be in the new series of Death in Paradise(Image: BBC)
Devastated supporters flooded the comments section with messages of encouragement, with one fan posting, “Can’t believe you won’t be returning. You have truly been awesome, Ginny! No one cheered louder when Selwyn asked Darlene to join the Saint Marie.”
With a tearful emoji, another fan penned, “I’m really going to miss you on Death in Paradise. I loved Darlene.”
A third chimed in, “Thank you SO much.. We loved Darlene. Best of luck for your next adventure.”
Another follower commented, “Best wishes, Ginny, on your next adventure. I really loved your portrayal of Darlene.”
While Ginny has bid farewell to the series, viewers can anticipate the arrival of new character, police Sergeant Mattie Fletcher, portrayed by actress Catherine Garton.
Darlene has been replaced by a new sergeant(Image: BBC)
Don Gilet will also be making a comeback as he steps back into the shoes of Detective Mervin Wilson, alongside Shantol Jackson, who plays DS Naomi Thomas.
Don Warrington is set to return as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson with Elizabeth Bourgine reprising her role as Catherine Bordey, while Shaquille Ali-Yebuah will continue his role as Officer Sebastian Rose.
The series will also welcome a host of big names for guest appearances, including Sarah Hadland, Siobhan Finneran, Hermione Norris, Steffan Rhodri, Ben Willbond, Gary Wilmot, and Tim McMullan.
Death in Paradise is set to return on 30 January on BBC One.
