Death in Paradise has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique blend of murder mysteries, tropical settings, and a vibrant ensemble cast. Set on Death in Paradise‘s fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie, the series greatly combines British detective work with island charm, creating a compelling narrative that keeps viewers hooked episode after episode. However, neither of those elements is the show’s best.
Central to its success are the diverse and dynamic characters who bring depth, humor, and intrigue to the storyline. From Death in Paradise‘s four astute detectives to the dedicated local officers, each character plays a pivotal role in unraveling the island’s most perplexing crimes. No character stays for more than a few seasons, making for a rotating cast that always introduces somebody new and exciting to the table.
10Commissioner Selwyn Patterson
Seasons 1-13
Commissioner Selwyn Patterson stands as a pillar of authority within the Saint Marie Police Service. As the head of the force, Selwyn is responsible for overseeing all operations, ensuring that the detectives and officers maintain high standards of professionalism and integrity. His leadership style is stern and often unfair, making it difficult for him to earn the respect of his team and the community alike. Selwyn’s calm yet degrading demeanor, strategic thinking, and dry, misguided humor are often distracting during high-stakes investigations, but occasionally, he does provide a steady hand in times of crisis.
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Beyond his professional role, in later seasons, Selwyn is portrayed as a family man, balancing his “demanding” job with his responsibilities as a father who is trying to reintegrate himself into the life of his daughter. His interactions with the detectives, especially when attempting to guide them through complex cases, highlight his off-kilter mentorship qualities and deep commitment to justice. Commissioner Patterson’s presence adds a layer of humor and unexpected gravitas to the series, reminding viewers of the broader and inherently human institutional framework that supports the island’s law enforcement. However, his typical rudeness towards other great characters in the show leaves him in tenth place.
Seasons 4-10
Officer JP Hooper is the embodiment of dedication and resilience within the Saint Marie Police Service. As one of the key local officers, JP plays a crucial role in investigations, often providing invaluable insights into the island’s unique cultural landscape. His deep knowledge of Saint Marie’s communities and traditions makes him an indispensable asset to the detectives.
JP’s character is marked by his unwavering commitment to justice and his ability to navigate complex social dynamics with ease.
JP’s character is marked by his unwavering commitment to justice and his ability to navigate complex social dynamics with ease. He often serves as a bridge between the British detectives and the local populace, facilitating smoother interactions and more effective investigations. JP’s personal stories, including his aspirations and challenges, as well as his fantastic relationships with Dwayne and Marlon, add depth to his character, making him more relatable and endearing. His focused and light-hearted personality provides a perfect counterbalance to the series’ more intense themes, highlighting his multifaceted personality.
8DI Jack Mooney
Seasons 6-9
DI Jack Mooney, Death in Paradise‘s third detective to leave, arrived in Saint Marie with a soothing, worldly presence, bringing grounded wisdom to Death in Paradise. After the sudden loss of his wife, Mooney sought a fresh start on the island, integrating more naturally than his predecessors. His laid-back, methodical detective style endeared him to both locals and viewers, though sometimes audiences may have craved more urgency.
Mooney’s less dramatic approach makes him perhaps the most normal detective of the show, for better or worse.
Throughout his cases, Mooney connects emotionally with people, coaxing truths from suspects with sensitivity that contrasts with other inspectors. In the episode “In the Footsteps of a Killer,” he handles a wrongful conviction with patience and care. However, his reflective nature and slower pace sometimes reduce the intensity of his investigations. His introspection, combined with personal struggles like his wife’s death and an awkward fling with Anna, added realistic melancholy and relatability, especially in his final episode.
Despite a quieter tenure, he left a memorable impression through his bond with JP, creating a father-son dynamic, his relationship with his daughter, and his fatherly bond with Florence. Mooney’s strength lies in his human connections, making his departure bittersweet for his team and fans. Though ranked in eighth place due to making less of an impact than other characters on this list, he remains a fantastic character.
7DS Camille Bordey
Seasons 1-4
DS Camille Bordey is a beloved character celebrated for her fiery personality, deep compassion, and unwavering dedication to justice. As a senior detective, Camille brings extensive experience and sharp analytical skills to the team, making her a cornerstone of the investigations on Saint Marie. Her ability to empathize with victims and their families adds emotional depth to each case and ensures investigations are handled with sensitivity and respect.
While Camille officially left the Honoré Police Force in season 4, episode 4, she has had many cameos in later seasons. In season 10, she joins the Honoré Police Force to investigate an assault attempt on her mom, and in season 13, she makes a guest appearance via FaceTime while in labor before giving Neville some advice on his life.
Camille’s leadership and mentorship of junior detectives is fantastic, as she guides her team with both strength, intuition, humor, and kindness. Her interactions with colleagues, marked by mutual respect and camaraderie, foster a harmonious and effective work environment, yet she still remains entertaining and humorous through it all. Her relatable personal struggles, including her departure from the series, resonated deeply, leaving a significant void that is still fondly remembered.
6DS Florence Cassell
Seasons 4-8, and 10-13
DS Florence Cassell is a standout character whose intelligence and empathy make her an invaluable member of the Honoré Police Department. Florence’s background as a seasoned detective brings a wealth of knowledge and a strategic approach to investigations. Her ability to remain calm under pressure and her knack for uncovering hidden truths set her apart as a formidable investigator. Florence’s interpersonal skills allow her to build strong relationships with witnesses and suspects, often gaining their trust and cooperation in ways that others cannot.
The new Death in Paradise detective will bring a fresh perspective, standing apart from predecessors with a distinct investigative style.
Her personal storylines, which delve into her motivations and challenges, especially those relating to Neville and Patrice, are some of the show’s best subplots. Florence’s dynamic with her colleagues, characterized by mutual respect and support, highlights her role as both a leader and a team player. Her contributions to the series are invaluable, as she is the second-longest staying character after Dwayne Myers, and she hopefully will make a return as a cameo in the future. However, her lackluster character development during her first few seasons leads her to rank lower on this list.
5DI Richard Poole
Seasons 1-3
DI Richard Poole’s introduction to Death in Paradise established the series’ iconic “fish-out-of-water” dynamic. As a quintessentially British inspector, Poole arrives on the warm, humid island of Saint Marie, bringing humor and rigidity with his full suit and refusal to adapt to the local climate, cuisine, or customs. His meticulous, traditional detective work, rooted in logic and procedural order, contrasts sharply with the vibrant island environment, creating many of the show’s funniest moments. However, his outsider perspective often leads to clashes with his team and the local culture, causing him to miss important cultural nuances and struggle with island customs.
Poole’s analytical mind and attention to detail make him a formidable investigator, as seen in episodes like “ Murder on the Plantation, “ where his sharp deductions solve a case that would stump even real-life detectives.
Over time, Poole evolves from a detached figure to someone who develops a deep bond with his team, particularly with DS Camille Bordey. Their camaraderie highlights his hidden warmth and genuine affection for his colleagues. Poole’s character arc culminates in his heartfelt departure in “Death of a Detective,“ where he chooses to make Saint Marie his true home just before being killed, leaving a lasting legacy as a foundational and unforgettable detective. Ben Miller’s portrayal of Poole set a high standard for future characters, blending humor, discipline, and reluctant warmth.
4DI Neville Parker
Seasons 9-13
DI Neville Parker, portrayed by Ralf Little, brings a distinctive blend of allergy-induced humor, tenacity, and sharp intellect to Death in Paradise. Introduced in the episode “Switcharoo,” Neville temporarily took over from DI Jack Mooney before deciding to stay on Saint Marie permanently. Born in 1981, this British detective is renowned for his exceptional problem-solving skills and analytical mind, often using his tape recorder to meticulously document and review cases. Despite his severe allergies to the sun, mosquitos, bugs, and sand, Neville’s dedication to justice remains unwavering, typically working overnight to assist with tasks.
Initially reserved and feeling out-of-place due to his sensitivities, Neville gradually opens up, fostering strong relationships with his team members, including DS Madeline Dumas, Officers JP Hooper, Ruby Patterson, and Trainee Officer Marlon Pryce. His interactions are marked by a balance of strange professionalism and fun camaraderie, creating a collaborative and harmonious environment within the police force. Off-duty, Neville navigates personal challenges, notably his initially unreciprocated feelings for DS Florence Cassel. His growth and adaptability throughout the series underscore his importance as a key player in the pursuit of justice on Saint Marie, making him a memorable and beloved detective.
3DI Humphrey Goodman
Seasons 3-6
DI Humphrey Goodman, portrayed by Kris Marshall, is widely regarded as the most beloved character in Death in Paradise. Introduced after the tragic departure of DI Richard Poole, Humphrey brings a warm, quirky personality and endearing enthusiasm to the Honoré Police Station. His unconventional detective approach blends intuition, creativity, and atypical methods, allowing him to solve complex cases. Humphrey’s sharp intellect and attention to detail make him exceptionally effective, while his emotional intelligence and empathy enable deep connections with witnesses and suspects.
Despite his clumsiness and occasional romantic misadventures with DS Camille Bordey and his ex-wife, Humphrey remains relatable and beloved by fans. His unrequited feelings for Camille make for a great subplot full of romantic tension, complementing his lighthearted demeanor. Humphrey’s evolution from a bumbling detective to a compassionate leader highlights his growth and adaptability, making him a key player in the quest for justice on Saint Marie.
Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise are streaming on Britbox and Pluto TV.
Humphrey’s legacy extends beyond Death in Paradise in the Beyond Paradise spinoff, where he continues to navigate new challenges with his trademark kindness, humor, and dedication. His character exemplifies that true detective work stems from a genuine love for people and a willingness to understand their perspectives, solidifying his place as one of the most memorable and cherished detectives in the series.
Seasons 10-13
Officer Marlon Pryce, portrayed by Tahj Miles, is a fan-favorite character whose vibrant personality and unwavering loyalty make him a cornerstone of the Death in Paradise team. Introduced through a reform program for small-time criminals, Marlon joins the Honoré Police with a laid-back attitude, initially engaging in scams and minor mischiefs like stealing JP Hooper’s badge and money. Faced with the threat of real prison time, he strikes a deal to join the police force, aiming to clear his record and secure a steady job.
Over his 31 episodes, Marlon evolves from a carefree troublemaker to a dedicated officer, demonstrating resilience and a deep understanding of the island’s social fabric. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life and gather crucial information proves instrumental in solving cases. Marlon’s optimism and sense of humor provide much-needed relief during intense investigations, while his mentorship under JP Hooper helps him grow both professionally and personally.
Marlon becomes a beloved team member, forming especially strong bonds with colleagues JP Hooper and Naomi Thomas. Ultimately, Marlon departs Saint Marie to provide for his little sister and joins Jamaica’s police force. While Marlon is no longer on the show, he left a lasting legacy of dedication, growth, and memorable interactions that have led him to deserve the title of second-best Death in Paradise character.
1Officer Dwayne Myers
Seasons 1-7 & 13
Officer Dwayne Myers, portrayed by Danny John-Jules, is a cornerstone of the Honoré Police Station team on Saint Marie. Introduced in the first episode, “Arriving in Paradise,” Dwayne eventually becomes Death in Paradise‘s longest-serving officer, known for his laid-back demeanor and hilariously cool presence. Born in 1964, Dwayne brings a wealth of experience and insider knowledge of the local island community, making him an invaluable asset during investigations. His role as the team driver and point man showcases his dedication and willingness to support his colleagues, often going the extra mile to ensure cases are solved efficiently.
Dwayne eventually becomes Death in Paradise ‘s longest-serving officer, known for his laid-back demeanor and hilariously cool presence.
Dwayne’s approachable nature and strong connections across Saint Marie allow him to navigate the island’s unique social landscape with ease. While his detective methods can sometimes be questionable, he consistently upholds his commitment to justice, never crossing the line into outright criminality. His ability to blend traditional policing with his maverick approach adds a unique dynamic to the team, earning him both respect and affection from his peers and viewers alike. Dwayne’s eventual departure to reconnect with his estranged father and embark on an extended world cruise marked the end of his impactful tenure on the show, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy as Death in Paradise‘s best character.
