Death in Paradise Season 14 Welcomes Award-Winning Actor to Cast

 Death in Paradise season 14 cast brings fresh faces to the beloved murder mystery series that has been entertaining BBC viewers with its quirky detectives and head-scratching investigations for the past 13 years. We've been following the show's distinctive blend of sunny scenery and dark crimes since its inception, and it shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. As the new season gears up for its return, it's all change on the island of Saint Marie, with the Honore Police force embarking on another perplexing murder investigation.

The first episode will certainly keep us on our toes as we discover what happens when the accidental death of a cyclist turns out to be anything but straightforward. For fans eagerly anticipating death in paradise cast changes, the 2024 lineup promises intriguing developments, particularly with the guest stars making their debut in episode 1. Although the show is almost ready to begin, many viewers are still wondering: is Ralf Little leaving Death in Paradise? With the Christmas special approaching and season 14 cast announcements generating buzz, we're here to share everything you need to know about who's arriving and departing from our favorite Caribbean detective drama.

BBC Casts Award-Winning Actor Don Gilet as DI Mervin Wilson

Why Don Gilet was chosen for the role

BBC executives express enthusiasm about Gilet joining the cast, with Tim Key, Executive Producer for Red Planet Pictures, describing him as "an amazing actor" with exciting plans for the new series . Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, adds that Gilet has "long been one of the UK's most exciting actors," already familiar to BBC viewers from roles in Sherwood, EastEnders, and Doctor Who.

At 58 years old, Gilet brings considerable experience to the role . Interestingly, he previously appeared in Death in Paradise during series four in 2015 as a guest character named Andre Morgan . His casting also marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first Black lead detective in the show's history, following Ben Miller, Kris Marshall, Ardal O'Hanlon, and Ralf Little .

How Mervin Wilson fits into the Saint Marie police force

DI Mervin Wilson arrives on Saint Marie from London and initially isn't pleased with his new surroundings . Unlike previous detectives, however, Wilson has a deeper connection to the island - he traveled there to visit his mother, whom he'd never actually met . This personal backstory creates a unique dynamic as he joins the Saint Marie police team.

The character demonstrates distinct personality traits that set him apart from his predecessors. While previous detectives were often socially awkward, Mervin is described as "blunt, opinionated, cocky, emotionally closed off, and even a little bit rude". This creates friction with his new colleagues, who are initially confused by his demeanor.

What viewers can expect from his character arc

Throughout season 14, viewers will witness Mervin's emotional journey as he deals with the discovery that his mother has died - a death he suspects "was not an accident" . This mystery forms a compelling storyline that runs alongside the weekly murder investigations.

Despite his initial desire to leave the island, Mervin finds himself drawn into both professional cases and personal discoveries. Commissioner Selwyn suggests that "by getting to know Saint Marie, the island where your mother spent her life, you might get to know a little of her". This offers Mervin an opportunity to explore his own identity and cultural heritage that had previously been closed off to him .

Don Gilet himself appears excited about the role, stating: "I can't wait for the fans to see how DI Mervin Wilson fares on the island, how he fits within the Saint Marie police team and what secrets may unfold..." . Furthermore, he expressed his commitment to the show, telling The Mirror: "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" .

Commissioner Selwyn Faces Career Crisis in Season 14

In a shocking development for longtime viewers, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson faces the most significant challenge of his career in the new season. The beloved character, portrayed by Don Warrington since the show's inception in 2011, receives devastating news that his position as Saint Marie Police Commissioner is being "phased out" due to budget cuts.

Selwyn's job at risk: what we know

JP Hooper delivers the unwelcome news to Selwyn, leaving him initially speechless . After being summoned to Jamaica, the Commissioner learns from the Chief Commissioner that his role is being eliminated despite his 50 years of police service . As the season progresses, the station welcomes his supposed replacement, the "unbearably smug" Sterling Fox, who immediately rubs everyone the wrong way .

How this impacts the rest of the team

The announcement sends ripples throughout the entire Saint Marie police force. Ginny Holder, who plays Darlene Curtis, noted that "it's monumental for all the other characters as well" and "affects everybody equally" . Mayor Catherine Bordey emerges as Selwyn's strongest ally, described as "the last line of defense in a battle to save the team" . Moreover, Sebastian proposes an online petition to restore Selwyn's position, demonstrating the island's affection and respect for their commissioner.

Actor Don Warrington's reaction to the storyline

Warrington describes the storyline as transformative for his character: "He's shocked by it, it's not what he expected. It comes as a bolt from the blue" . In discussing Selwyn's emotional journey, he explains, "It means that he has to deal with a situation that he hadn't expected at all and it's going to mean a big change in his life, in his status. It's monumental".

Nevertheless, this crisis reveals new dimensions to the typically composed Commissioner. "It's very interesting because we discover other aspects of Selwyn," Warrington notes, adding that "he's opening up, he's a bit like a flower coming in to bloom".

Returning Fan-Favorites Reignite Familiar Dynamics

Alongside the arrival of DI Mervin Wilson, season 14 welcomes back several beloved characters whose presence adds depth to the unfolding drama in Saint Marie.

Tobi Bakare returns as JP Hooper

Tobi Bakare makes a welcome return as JP Hooper, marking his second guest appearance after previously featuring in season 13. Bakare, who was part of the main cast from seasons 4 to 10, left when his character accepted a position as Head of the Police Training Program .

When asked about possibly returning full-time, Bakare remained open yet thoughtful: "I'm a big fan of the show and I would always be open to having discussions because it's just a good show" . Yet he explained his current priority is family life, stating, "I'm still watering the seed of family". His return episode shows JP delivering the difficult news about Commissioner Selwyn's position being eliminated.

Darlene Curtis and Naomi Thomas continue to evolve

Darlene Curtis, portrayed by Ginny Holder, experiences significant growth this season. After progressing from civilian staff member to trainee, she now becomes "Officer extraordinaire". Additionally, Darlene takes on a mentoring role when a new officer joins the team, yet questions if she's the right person for the job.

Meanwhile, Sergeant Naomi Thomas (Shantol Jackson) faces an emotional crossroads when an "old flame from St Barnabas makes a surprising appearance on the island" . This unexpected reunion creates a compelling personal storyline that runs parallel to the season's mysteries.

Catherine Bordey's role in supporting Selwyn

As Saint Marie's mayor and owner of a beachfront bar, Catherine Bordey (Elizabeth Bourgine) emerges as Commissioner Selwyn's strongest ally during his career crisis. Upon learning of his impending dismissal, she immediately protests: "But they can't do this?" . Subsequently, Catherine launches an online petition gathering thousands of signatures to save his position.

In her official capacity as mayor, Catherine becomes "the last line of defense in a battle to save the team as we know it" . Her friendship with Selwyn deepens throughout the season as she stands firmly by his side through this challenging period.

Guest Stars and New Faces Expand the Cast Roster

Season 14 introduces an array of fresh faces to Saint Marie, beginning with a dramatic first episode that establishes several key guest characters whose interactions drive the inaugural mystery.

Anthony J. Abraham debuts as Officer Benjamin Brice

Anthony J. Abraham makes his entrance as Officer Benjamin Brice, a new recruit whose time on the show takes an unexpected turn. Despite his enthusiasm for his first day with the Saint Marie police force, Benjamin is found murdered before he can officially begin his duties . Abraham, recognized for his work in The Acolyte, Jack Whitehall's Bad Education, and Theodosia , delivers a performance that resonates even after his character's untimely demise.

Michelle Greenidge and Stephen Odubola join as the Brice family

Alongside Abraham, Michelle Greenidge portrays Paulette Brice, Benjamin's mother . Greenidge, known for her roles as Valerie in Ricky Gervais's After Life, PC Williams in Code 404, and Rosa Babtunde in It's A Sin , brings depth to the character whose complicated relationship with her son forms a central aspect of the investigation.

Stephen Odubola completes the Brice family as Karlus, Benjamin's brother . Odubola, whose credits include Blue Story, The Sandman, and Boiling Point , plays a character with a criminal background who had attempted to involve Benjamin in illegal activities .

Mark Holden's intriguing role as Damon Clarke

Mark Holden appears as Damon Clarke, Benjamin's stepfather and a key suspect in his murder . Beyond his acting career in productions like His Dark Materials and A Discovery of Witches, Holden has an especially fascinating background—he previously served as a police officer in both the Metropolitan Police Service and the Edmonton Police Service in Canada.

How guest stars shape the season's first mystery

The inaugural episode's storyline unfolds through Benjamin's narrative, told partly through his own social media posts and flashbacks . The mystery becomes especially compelling as the primary suspects are all Benjamin's family members—creating an emotionally charged investigation. Throughout the episode, viewers learn more about Benjamin through clues he left behind, specifically the mysterious word "AIRAM" written under his body , making his character central to solving his own murder.

Conclusion

Death in Paradise Season 14 certainly promises significant changes while maintaining the charm that has captivated viewers for over a decade. Don Gilet's arrival as DI Mervin Wilson marks a historic moment as the first Black lead detective in the series, bringing a character with unique emotional complexity and personal ties to Saint Marie. His journey to discover his mother's past will undoubtedly add depth to the weekly murder investigations that fans have come to love.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson faces perhaps the greatest challenge of his career as his position becomes threatened after 50 years of dedicated service. This storyline not only showcases Don Warrington's acting talents but also brings together the entire Saint Marie community in support of their beloved commissioner. Catherine Bordey stands out as his strongest ally, further developing their long-standing friendship amidst this professional crisis.

Familiar faces return to enhance the season's appeal. Tobi Bakare makes another guest appearance as JP Hooper, while Darlene Curtis continues her professional growth as she mentors new officers. Additionally, Sergeant Naomi Thomas encounters an old flame, adding personal drama to the police station's dynamics.

The first episode wastes no time establishing high stakes with the murder of new recruit Officer Benjamin Brice before his first day on the job. This tragic event introduces viewers to the Brice family, whose complicated relationships form the backbone of a compelling mystery that showcases the show's signature puzzle-solving format.

Though cast members come and go, Death in Paradise maintains its winning formula of stunning Caribbean scenery, intricate murder plots, and charismatic characters. Season 14 therefore strikes a balance between honoring what longtime viewers cherish while introducing fresh elements to keep the series vibrant. The upcoming Christmas special and subsequent episodes will surely deliver the perfect escape to Saint Marie's sunshine alongside satisfyingly complex mysteries that have made this show a perennial favorite.

Key Takeaways

Death in Paradise Season 14 brings significant cast changes and compelling storylines that will reshape the beloved BBC crime drama while maintaining its signature charm.

• Don Gilet makes history as the first Black lead detective, playing DI Mervin Wilson who arrives from London to investigate his mother's suspicious death on Saint Marie.

• Commissioner Selwyn faces career crisis after 50 years of service as his position gets eliminated due to budget cuts, uniting the entire island community in his support.

• Familiar faces return with fresh dynamics including JP Hooper's guest appearance, Darlene Curtis mentoring new officers, and Naomi Thomas encountering an old flame.

• Season opens with shocking murder of new recruit Officer Benjamin Brice before his first day, creating a family-centered mystery that drives the inaugural episode.

• Show balances tradition with innovation by introducing complex character arcs and personal backstories while preserving the winning formula of Caribbean scenery and intricate murder plots.

The season promises to honor longtime fans' expectations while delivering fresh perspectives through meaningful character development and historically significant casting choices that will define the show's future direction.

FAQs

Q1. Who is the new lead detective in Death in Paradise season 14? Don Gilet joins the cast as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson, making history as the first Black lead detective in the series. He arrives from London with a personal connection to Saint Marie, as he's there to investigate his mother's suspicious death.

Q2. What major challenge does Commissioner Selwyn Patterson face in the new season? Commissioner Selwyn Patterson learns that his position is being "phased out" due to budget cuts, despite his 50 years of service. This unexpected news throws his career into crisis and impacts the entire Saint Marie police force.

Q3. Are there any familiar faces returning to the show? Yes, Tobi Bakare makes a guest appearance as JP Hooper, while Darlene Curtis continues her role with new responsibilities. Additionally, Sergeant Naomi Thomas encounters an old flame, adding personal drama to the series.

Q4. How does the first episode of season 14 set up the story? The season opens with the shocking murder of new recruit Officer Benjamin Brice before his first day on the job. This tragic event introduces the Brice family and sets up a compelling mystery that showcases the show's signature puzzle-solving format.

Q5. What can viewers expect from DI Mervin Wilson's character arc? DI Wilson's storyline involves uncovering the truth about his mother's life and death on Saint Marie. Initially reluctant to be on the island, he gradually opens up as he investigates both professional cases and his personal family mystery throughout the season.