BBC drops major update on Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise Christmas special following star’s departure
The release date for the Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise Christmas special has finally been confirmed, with the festive episode set to introduce Don Gilet as the BBC show's new lead detective
The wait is over, as the air date for the highly anticipated Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise Christmas special has been officially announced.
Fans of the hit BBC series can look forward to a festive treat in late December, marking the debut of Don Gilet as the show’s new lead detective, DI Mervin Wilson. He takes the reins of the Saint Marie police department, following the departure of DI Neville Parker, played by Ralf Little, at the end of season 13.
The Christmas special is set to air on Sunday, 22 December, at 8:30 pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
This special episode comes hot on the heels of the new spin-off, Return to Paradise, and ahead of another Christmas special from Beyond Paradise, also airing this December.
Don Gilet will be joined by familiar faces, including Don Warrington, Shantol Jackson, Ginny Holder, Elizabeth Bourgine, and Danny John-Jules, all of whom are expected to return for the show’s fourteenth season in 2025, reports the Express.
Don Gilet takes over as lead detective ( Image: (Image: BBC))
The intriguing synopsis for the Christmas special reads: “When holiday maker Stuart Fullwell (Marcus Brigstocke), fresh from performing karaoke dressed as Santa, is found shot dead on the beach by a young boy Ollie – son of Jamie (Jim Howick) – the Saint Marie police team kick into action.”
“But with no Detective Inspector in place of the recently departed Neville Parker, are they capable of tackling such a big case? “”With the pressure mounting, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson (Don Warrington) is relieved to receive some encouraging news as he learns a British detective is holidaying on the island.”
“Following a somewhat disappointing solo trip, DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet) is aboard a flight back home to London ready to take off, though is informed by his boss that he’s to be seconded to Honore, whether he likes it or not.”
The Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise Christmas special will air in late December ( Image: (Image: BBC))
Don’s casting was announced earlier this year after Ralf confirmed he’d be leaving the BBC series. It’s been teased that newcomer Mervin “isn’t overly pleased with his new surroundings” when he arrives on Saint Marie.
Meanwhile, ex-EastEnders star Don said of his new role: “Being offered the new lead role in Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands.”
“This is a big show with a big heart, and the love continually grows for it. It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled and dedicated.”
Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise will air at 8:30pm on Sunday 22nd December on BBC One
