D.e.a.t.h in Paradise Star Breaks Silence on Her Future After Newcomer Clash: What’s Next for Naomi Thomas?
Fans of D.e.a.t.h in Paradise were elated to witness the return of DS Naomi Thomas in the BBC crime drama’s 14th season, but with the new season kicking off, one big question lingers: will Naomi Thomas be back for more episodes in the future?
The beloved series returned to TV screens in late January, giving BBC viewers their first look at the enigmatic DI Mervin Wilson (played by Don Gilet) on the scenic island of Saint Marie. Though the season marked the absence of Ralf Little’s character, Neville Parker, following his departure in the previous season, the premiere episode wasn’t without its familiar faces, especially the dynamic DS Naomi Thomas (Shantol Jackson), who joined the show in its 11th season.
New Faces and Tensions on Saint Marie
Naomi Thomas was introduced after the departure of JP Hooper (Tobi Bakare), and Shantol Jackson was thrilled to return to the series. She shared her excitement about returning to D.e.a.t.h in Paradise, revealing her strong connection to the Caribbean setting and the unique opportunity to portray her character using her own dialect. Jackson said in an interview with the Express:
“I absolutely love the fact that this is a long-running Caribbean show. Being able to speak in my own dialect while being part of a drama set in the Caribbean is a huge deal for me. I’m adding something meaningful to a project that I care so much about. I have such deep affection for Guadeloupe, the island, the people, and the entire crew. It’s such a blessing to be part of the D.e.a.t.h in Paradise journey.”
A Tense Relationship with DI Mervin Wilson
While Naomi’s return to the show was highly anticipated, her thoughts on the new DI, Mervin Wilson, are less than favorable. During the Christmas special, Naomi and her colleague Darlene were both vocal about their desire for Mervin to leave, but both understood the necessity of having a Detective Inspector on the team. Jackson revealed her character’s honest feelings about the DI:
“Rude, insensitive, and impatient! During the Christmas special, Naomi and Darlene want Mervin gone, but they understand the team needs a new DI. He complains incessantly about the island, and his offensive attitude doesn’t sit well with Naomi or Darlene. Naomi makes her feelings very clear to him, though she does realize he’s very capable and intuitive.”
This tension between Naomi and Mervin is bound to make for an exciting season, with the future of Mervin’s role on Saint Marie hanging in the balance after his frosty reception in the Christmas special.
New Mysteries and Unraveling Secrets
In the opening episode of the latest season, viewers watched as DI Mervin took on the case of a young man found dead at the bottom of a ravine, with a cryptic message left behind. The plot thickens with a tantalizing preview of the next episode, where a game show contestant is tragically murdered mid-air while riding a zip line. As the TV crew members come under suspicion, Mervin surprises his colleagues by signing a contract to extend his stay on Saint Marie. But things quickly take a turn when it becomes clear that Mervin has an ulterior motive for his extended visit, creating further tension with Selwyn, who also harbors his own secrets.
The latest season of D.e.a.t.h in Paradise continues to captivate audiences every Friday at 9 p.m. on BBC One. With new mysteries, evolving character dynamics, and shocking twists, the series promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats!
Stay tuned as the drama unfolds and Naomi Thomas’ future on D.e.a.t.h in Paradise remains a hot topic. Will she continue to clash with Mervin, or will they find common ground? Only time will tell!
