Death in Paradise 2024 Christmas Special: A New DI and Festive Chaos Unfold

Death in Paradise 2024 Christmas Special introduces DI Mervin Wilson amid a sun-soaked festive mystery involving multiple Santas, shocking twists, and an impossible case.

A Sun-Drenched Christmas Mystery in Death in Paradise

The holidays are back, and so is Death in Paradise! This year’s festive feature-length special promises sun, suspense, and the exciting debut of a brand-new Detective Inspector.

When holidaymaker Stuart Fullwell (Marcus Brigstocke) is found dead on the beach—after singing karaoke dressed as Santa—Saint Marie’s police team faces a daunting challenge. With DI Neville Parker recently departed, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson (Don Warrington) scrambles to fill the void. Enter DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet), a British detective reluctantly dragged into the island’s chaos just as he’s about to head home.

An Unexpected Detective Takes Charge

DI Mervin Wilson is no ordinary festive visitor. After a disappointing solo trip, Mervin’s plans to leave are thwarted when Selwyn orders him to stay and solve the mysterious Santa slayings. His arrival on the scene is anything but smooth:

• The Case Intensifies: A second Santa—celebrity songwriter Tony Hurst (Steven Hartley)—is shot. Soon, a third Santa, Tyrus DeMille (Michael Salami), narrowly escapes death.
• A Team Divided: Mervin’s blunt demeanor and impatience rub DS Naomi Thomas (Shantol Jackson) and Officer Darlene Curtis (Ginny Holder) the wrong way. Naomi finds him “rude, insensitive, and impatient,” but even she begins to see his talent as the investigation deepens.
• Shocking Accusations: At Catherine’s Christmas fair, local woman Brianna Clemetson (Joy Richardson) accuses Mervin of being the killer. The revelation of Mervin’s real reason for being on Saint Marie changes everything.

Behind the Scenes: DI Mervin’s Debut

Don Gilet, who plays DI Mervin Wilson, shared his experience stepping into such a beloved role:

“It was both exciting and terrifying—like a scary ride at a theme park. Once you’re in it, you think, ‘What have I let myself in for?’ But it’s such a beautiful place to work.”

For Don, filming a Christmas special in the Caribbean heat was a strange but fun experience:

“Christmas in a hot country feels odd! You expect snow and cosy fires, but here you embrace the sunshine.”

Returning Favorites and Special Moments

The Christmas special also features familiar faces fans adore:

• Commissioner Selwyn Patterson (Don Warrington)
• Officer Dwayne Myers (Danny John-Jules), who reconnects with his father Nelson (Ram John Holder).
• DS Naomi Thomas and Officer Darlene Curtis, who must adapt to working under the no-nonsense Mervin.

Selwyn, ever the observer, remains wary of Mervin’s unorthodox methods but grows to see the depth behind the detective’s brusque demeanor. As Don Warrington humorously noted:

“If Selwyn bought Mervin a Christmas gift, it would be a gag!”

A Santarrific Case to Solve

What makes this year’s Death in Paradise special even more thrilling? The mystery itself.

• Three Santas, One Gun: All the attacks appear linked by the same weapon and time.
• Impossible Connections: Hotel staff Kenny (Dex Lee) and guests Tabitha (Angela Griffin) and Karla (Elizabeth Carling) are key witnesses—or suspects.
• A Festive Twists and Turns: Just as the case seems unsolvable, a shocking twist at Catherine’s bar pushes the team to unravel the truth.

A Christmas Party for the Ages

While DI Mervin may not be a holiday enthusiast (he’d settle for an air conditioner and Wi-Fi), Naomi has grander ideas for a festive celebration:

“She’d organize a black-tie Caribbean-style event with local food, decorations, and family. She’d make sure it’s special for Mervin.”

When and Where to Watch

Don’t miss the Death in Paradise 2024 Christmas Special:

• Date: Sunday, 22 December
• Time: 8:30 PM
• Where: BBC One and iPlayer 

Final Thoughts

With sun-soaked suspense, a reluctant new DI, and a case packed with Santas and surprises, this year’s Death in Paradise Christmas special is not to be missed. Will DI Mervin Wilson crack the case and win over the team—or will his disinterest ruin Christmas in Saint Marie? Tune in to find out!

FAQs

1. Who plays the new DI in Death in Paradise?
Don Gilet plays DI Mervin Wilson, a detective reluctantly pulled into a Christmas murder investigation.

2. When does the Christmas Special air?
The Death in Paradise 2024 Christmas Special airs on 22 December at 8:30 PM on BBC One and iPlayer.

3. What is the storyline for the Christmas Special?
Three Santas are targeted in mysterious attacks, all seemingly connected. DI Mervin Wilson must work with the team to solve the impossible case.

4. Is Officer Dwayne Myers returning?
Yes! Danny John-Jules reprises his role as Officer Dwayne Myers, reconnecting with his father Nelson for a Christmas fishing trip.

5. Where is Death in Paradise filmed?
The show is filmed on the beautiful island of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean.