The actor shares his bittersweet memories as the show nears its season finale.
Having been initially signed on for two seasons, Miller’s contract concluded with a dramatic turn where his character helped solve his own murder in a clever plot twist. Even years later, he expressed fondness for the show’s writing, stating, “One of the reasons for the show’s success is it keeps moving forward, and I think that’s an important part of it.” This continuous evolution in the cast has helped the series maintain its popularity, with many fans growing to love the different detectives who have filled the role since his departure.
Currently, the show features its fifth detective, Don Gilet, portraying the irritable DI Mervin Wilson, while Kris Marshall, Ardal O’Hanlon, and Ralf Little have taken on the detective role over the past decade. Despite the initial concern about losing a lead actor, Miller believes this shift has contributed positively to the series, stating, “People can feel that there’s something real about it, and I think it really, really works.” The genuine emotions that actors bring into their roles, he believes, deepen the comedic elements of the plot.
Reflecting on his last scenes which aired in 2014, Miller fondly remembered how his character’s demise happened in such a unique fashion. “I love that episode where DI Richard Poole is murdered. It’s so clever that I solve my own murder from beyond the grave,” he shared, nodding to the show’s clever writing that made the exit memorable. Following his departure, he made a brief cameo as a ghost in the show’s 100th episode, which aired in 2021.
While Miller enjoyed his time on Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise, he also noted how life took a different direction after he embraced fatherhood, stating, “My life after Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise has been incredibly rewarding.” He became a dedicated father to three children: Jackson, Harrison, and Lana, and his parenting journey has significantly influenced his career.
In terms of professional endeavors, Miller has branched out into writing children’s books—something that emerged as he began telling stories to entertain his kids. His recent publication, Diary of a Puss in Boots, showcases this transition, drawing inspiration from his experiences as a father. His love for storytelling was reignited through spending time with children and observing their reading habits. “Having kids reminded me how much I loved reading when I was a kid. Then feeling like I’d like to try and write some stories for them… That got me off running, really,” he explained. Miller’s children inspired him—echoing a sincere desire to help young readers discover the joys of literature.
His realization was that through writing for children, he could provide enjoyable narratives that nourish a love for reading. He added, “When a kid comes up to you after an event and they say that they weren’t into reading until they read one of your books, you can’t imagine how that feels.” This reflects Miller’s deep understanding of literature’s critical role in childhood development and the power stories hold in children’s lives.
With the conclusion of Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise‘s 14th season fast approaching, and a surprising schedule shake-up due to the Comic Relief special, viewers are eager to see how the plot unfolds for the series. The show will not air tonight, March 21, 2025, with its finale postponed to March 29, 2025, due to a celebration of charitable endeavors. The finale promises more intriguing twists as DI Mervin Wilson grapples with a murder investigation that could lead to significant character developments.
Overall, while viewers await the series conclusion, they can reflect on the rich history Miller helped shape during his time as DI Richard Poole. His lingering influence remains evident as the show continues to delight fans with fresh narratives and characters that invigorate the essence of being a detective in paradise.
