Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise: Don Gilet Opens Up About ‘Intense’ Filming Period as Ralf Little’s Replacement
As we bid farewell to Ralf Little’s beloved DI Neville Parker, fans of Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. In May 2024, Don Gilet was announced as Little’s successor, stepping into the shoes of the iconic detective role that has captivated audiences for over a decade. With his debut set for the upcoming Christmas special, Gilet has shared exclusive insights into the “intense” filming process and his journey to becoming Saint Marie’s newest sleuth.
A Fresh Face for Saint Marie
The transition from Ralf Little’s DI Neville Parker to Don Gilet’s DI Mervin Wilson marks a new chapter for Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise. Gilet, renowned for his roles in EastEnders and Shetland, takes on a character arriving from London for what starts as a simple holiday. However, his plans change when he’s called upon to solve the mystery of Stuart Fullwell’s murder—a festive yet chilling case involving a man found dead on a beach in a Santa suit.
“Getting to grips with this role has been exciting and terrifying in equal measure,” Gilet revealed in an interview with PA Media. His character’s sharp wit and unique perspective promise to bring a refreshing dynamic to the island’s police force.
The Challenges of Filming in Paradise
While Guadeloupe, the picturesque French Caribbean island where Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise is filmed, may seem like an idyllic workplace, Gilet candidly described the challenges of working in such a climate.
“It’s intense because you’ve got that heat from the start to the end of the day,” he shared. “It takes an extra layer of concentration. You can’t turn the temperature down, but it’s a beautiful backdrop to shoot against. Sometimes you have to pinch yourself and go, ‘Look at where you are and what you’re doing.’”
This blend of awe and difficulty has become a rite of passage for actors on the series, testing their endurance while rewarding them with unforgettable experiences.
Gilet’s Journey: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
Gilet compared stepping into DI Mervin Wilson’s shoes to embarking on a thrilling theme park ride. “I’m going on it, and I know it’s going to be scary, but I’m going to do it,” he said. Reflecting on earning the role, he confessed, “It felt like a little personal air punch moment—a reminder that, yeah, you can still do this.”
Notably, this isn’t Gilet’s first visit to Saint Marie. Fans may recall his guest appearance in Season 4, where he played a different character. This familiarity with the series adds a layer of excitement to his new role, as he steps into the lead detective position.
The Cast’s Chemistry: New Dynamics and Returning Favorites
Joining Gilet in the Christmas special and the 2025 series are several familiar faces, including:
- Don Warrington as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson
- Shantol Jackson as DS Naomi Thomas
- Ginny Holder as Darlene Curtis
- Elizabeth Bourgine as Catherine Bordey
- Danny John-Jules as Officer Dwayne Myers
Shantol Jackson shared her thoughts on working with Gilet, describing him as “lovely.” However, Naomi Thomas’ dynamic with DI Wilson is anything but smooth. “She finds him rude, insensitive, and impatient,” Jackson explained. “He complains about the island a lot, which doesn’t sit well with her or Darlene. Still, she acknowledges his capability and intuition.”
What Makes DI Wilson Unique?
Unlike his predecessors, DI Wilson’s initial reluctance to embrace Saint Marie’s charm adds an intriguing layer to his character. His straightforward, no-nonsense approach contrasts sharply with the island’s laid-back vibe, setting the stage for plenty of drama and humor.
Gilet’s portrayal promises to strike a balance between the character’s professional acumen and his struggle to adjust to island life. This fresh take on the detective role keeps the series engaging for longtime fans while attracting new viewers.
When and Where to Watch
The Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise Christmas special is set to air on 22 December 2024 at 8:30 PM on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It’s a must-watch event that kicks off Don Gilet’s journey as DI Mervin Wilson and sets the tone for an exciting new season in 2025.
Conclusion
As Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise continues to evolve, Don Gilet’s addition to the cast heralds an exciting new chapter. With his compelling take on DI Mervin Wilson, fans can look forward to fresh mysteries, dynamic character interactions, and the breathtaking beauty of Saint Marie. Whether you’re a longtime follower or new to the series, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise.
