Death in Paradise’s new detective Don Gilet makes major series announcement
Death in Paradise's Don Gilet appeared on ITV's Lorraine to discuss his new role as the show's lead detective
During his chat on ITV’s Lorraine, Death in Paradise newcomer Don Gilet dropped some juicy titbits about the upcoming series. Gracing the screen with his colleague Shantol Jackson, who plays Naomi Thomas, Don delved into the challenges of stepping into Ralf Little’s shoes as the new detective lead, Mervin Wilson.
The pair got into the nitty-gritty of what fans can expect from the show, with Don revealing his own timeline for returning to set.
“When are you back to the sunshine then?” probed Lorraine before Don confirmed: “Unfortunately, it is about April time, end of April.”
Shantol couldn’t resist teasing and quipped, “Why is that unfortunate, Don?” which was met with laughter as Don added, “I just meant for the people I am going to leave,” reports the Express.
Don Gilet plays Mervin Wilson (
(Image: ITV))
But it’s not just about filling Ralf’s shoes or catching rays for Don; he’s bringing a fresh twist to the beloved series. He opened up about a riveting story arc that sees his character embark on a personal quest intertwined with the island’s latest perplexing crime.
“I think what is different about this one is that there is an arc,” Don spilled, diving deep into his character’s motivation: “There is a personal journey that is going on with the detective because he is originally there to find his mother.
“And he happens to still be on the island, leaving and still be on the island when the latest crime happens, so let’s make use of him.”
Lorraine highlighted the new DI’s hesitance about settling in Saint Marie. Don confessed to his character’s inner conflict: “He is torn. He is there to find his mother. He doesn’t know what it’s going to be like when he meets her.
Mervin Wilson and Naomi Thomas in Death in Paradise (
(Image: BBC))
“He finds out she has died, then he has to stay there in this place, and he has tried to leave. He has all that struggle going on and he doesn’t like these people because he doesn’t want to be there.”
The new series of Death in Paradise continues to dazzle fans every Friday night.
An intriguing snippet for the next episode reveals: “At the launch of her highly anticipated skincare product, a wellness business owner suddenly dies from an allergic reaction.
“Mervin quickly deduces her death to be suspicious when, despite the presence of peanuts in her throat, the victim didn’t eat or drink anything. Meanwhile, Darlene struggles to train up new officer.”
Lorraine airs weekdays at 9am on ITV.
