Don Gilet has burst onto the Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise scene as DI Mervin Wilson in the 2024 Christmas special now stepping in as the lead detective of the sun-soaked drama.
Although, the actor is not new to the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe (known on the show as St Marie), he actually appeared in the series in a smaller part back in 2015.
Upon securing the coveted DI position, Gilet told The Mirror about his genuine passion for the role: “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.”
Since starring in the series Don has come up with some pretty strict rules against visitors on set, this include his 18-year-old son. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter
The former EastEnders actor does this to maintain a strong professional focus, to avoid day-to-day distractions. Despite filming so close to the beautiful beaches, the actor is also said to be resisting the temptation of its waters, according to the Express.
He told the Radio Times that he has also refused visits from his father and sister, alongside his son, so that can immerse himself in the script “so that you know it inside out.”
Veteran actor Don Gilet has been a fixture on our TV screens for decades and is renowned for his roles in some of the most beloved British television shows including Holby City and Doctor Who.
Nevertheless, Don’s dedicated fans may find themselves equally captivated by his personal life, tracing his roots back to his humble beginnings in the Midlands, his previous marriage to a high-profile former partner, and the present speculation about a new romantic interest hailing from the cast of Happy Valley.
His former marriage to actress Tracy Whitwell, notable for her work in Soldier, Soldier, led them to a shared home in Bedfordshire, and they have a son named Flynn, who is now 18 years old.
As of late, there have been rumours of romance between Don and Siobhan Finneran, known for her portrayal of Clare Cartwright in Happy Valley. Although not officially confirming their relationship, they were spotted hand in hand at last year’s TV Choice Awards.
Don and Siobhan have previously worked together, notably in ITV’s 2017 drama The Loch, where Don portrayed the character of psychological profiler Blake Albrighton, while Siobhan took on the role of DCI Lauren Quigley.
During an appearance on ITV’s Lorraine alongside co-star Shantol Jackson, Don announced that filming for season 15 will commence in April.
Speaking about his imminent departure to Guadalupe, he remarked: “Unfortunately, it is about April time, end of April.”
Gilet’s use of ‘unfortunate’ was playfully probed by his co-star, prompting him to laugh and explain that by ‘unfortunate’ he “just meant for the people I am going to leave”.
The final of Dᴇᴀᴛʜ in Paradise is now expected to air on Friday, March 28. It was supposed to be broadcasted the week before, although they decided to delay it by a week to make room for Comic Relief on Friday, March 21.
