Doc Martin star ‘tipped’ to replace Death in Paradise’s Selwyn Patterson after exit fears

Death in Paradise fans fear one character maybe leaving the BBC drama

Doc Martin star Martin Clunes is the bookmaker’s favourite to join the Death in Paradise cast if Selwyn Patterson (played by Don Warrington) actually leaves Saint Marie.

In the current series of the BBC drama, the Commissioner has been told that his job in the Saint Marie police force is being dissolved, leading fans to believe that the star is leaving the show altogether.

While nothing has been officially confirmed by show bosses, the bookmakers have been sharing their thoughts on who could join the force if the Commissioner leaves.

Other big names thrown into the mix include Danny John-Jules, who played Dwayne Myers in Death in Paradise. The officer last appeared in the 2024 Christmas special, and fans also hope he makes a return.

Sara Martins, who played Camille Bordey, is another favourite to return. Camille, who recently had a baby, is often mentioned in the series by her mother, Catherine (Elizabeth Bourgine).

Mike Reading, spokesperson at Betway, said: “The latest season of Death in Paradise has already hinted at a major departure – with Don Warrington’s character, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, potentially exiting.

“As one of the longest-serving characters, the Commissioner has been at the heart of the series and Saint Marie’s police force since the very beginning.

“While this isn’t the first time an exit has been teased for Warrington – after the 100th episode saw his character considering retirement following a near-death experience – this most recent development may see the Commissioner role change or be ‘dissolved’ for good, paving the way for a drastic shakeup to the show’s long-standing format.”

He continued: “Should Warrington depart, Danny John-Jules is the 3/1 favourite to return to Saint Marie in what could be a surprising twist – reprising his role as fan-favourite character Dwayne Myers to take on the mantle of Commissioner. Close behind is former co-star Sara Martins, priced up at 5/1, who could make a dramatic comeback as Camille Bordey.

“Also in the running are Martin Clunes (7/1) and Adjoa Andoh (8/1), following success with respective shows Out There and Bridgerton. Elsewhere, Lennie James (12/1) and Diane Morgan (16/1) could bring an entirely new dynamic to the detective series, while Wonka star Paterson Joseph is the longshot at 25/1.”

Mike added: “As the newest season continues, all eyes are on who might step into paradise should Commissioner Patterson bid farewell for good!”

While the Commissioner’s future is uncertain, fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts about whether he will depart Saint Marie.

“Without the Commissioner there is not Death in Paradise,” one fan wrote while another stated: “Oh no it wouldn’t be the same without Selwyn.”

“They better not get rid of Selwyn,” someone else commented.

Another added: “They can’t get rid of Serlwyn! He is so much more than the Commissioner.”

Death in Paradise returns on Friday at 9pm on BBC One.