Who’s Joining Death in Paradise in 2025? New Cast Revealed

Introduction

Death in Paradise is back, and fans are buzzing about who’s joining the sun-soaked Saint Marie police force in 2025. Season 14, which kicked off with a Christmas special on December 22, 2024, introduced Don Gilet as the new lead, DI Mervin Wilson, replacing Ralf Little’s Neville Parker. But it’s not just Gilet shaking things up—new guest stars and a fresh officer have joined the ranks, while familiar faces like Tobi Bakare return. With filming for Season 15 underway in Guadeloupe, as shared by Élizabeth Bourgine on Instagram in April 2025, let’s dive into the new and returning cast, their roles, and what fans on X are saying about the show’s future. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 lineup.

Don Gilet Leads as DI Mervin Wilson

• Who Is Mervin Wilson? Don Gilet, known for EastEnders and Shetland, steps into the spotlight as DI Mervin Wilson, the first Black lead detective, debuting in the 2024 Christmas special. Mervin, a Londoner, arrives in Saint Marie to meet his birth mother, only to learn she’s passed away. A complex murder case keeps him on the island, and his gritty, streetwise style contrasts with past DIs like Ben Miller’s Richard Poole. Gilet told Radio Times his role feels like a “precious jewel,” but fans worry his reluctance to stay might mean a short tenure.

• Why It Matters: Gilet’s casting addresses long-standing critiques about the show’s “white saviour” trope, as noted in a 2021 Guardian article. His personal storyline—uncovering his mother’s mysterious death—adds depth, but if the writers lean too heavily on stereotypes, it risks feeling forced. Fans on X praise his “edgy” vibe but want authentic Caribbean narratives.

• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Casting a non-white lead is a step forward, but tokenism is a risk. The show must develop Mervin’s arc beyond his outsider status, or it could alienate viewers expecting the classic Death in Paradise charm.

New Officer Sebastian Rose Joins the Team

• Shaquille Ali-Yebuah’s Role: British actor Shaquille Ali-Yebuah joins as Officer Sebastian Rose in Season 14, replacing Benjamin Brice after his death in the first episode, aired January 31, 2025. Ali-Yebuah, seen in The Feed, brings a rookie energy, mentored by Ginny Holder’s Darlene Curtis. His inexperience leads to procedural slip-ups, which Darlene must correct, per Edinburgh News.

• Training Challenges: Darlene’s mentoring role highlights the difficulty of integrating new officers in a small, tight-knit force. Mistakes like mishandling evidence or misreading suspects can derail cases, as seen when Sebastian’s eagerness causes a mix-up in episode two’s game show murder investigation. Proper training is critical to avoid costly errors in Saint Marie’s high-stakes cases.

• Fan Reactions and Future: X posts show mixed feelings—some fans love Sebastian’s fresh perspective, while others find him “too green” compared to veterans like JP Hooper. If Ali-Yebuah stays for Season 15, his growth could mirror Tobi Bakare’s arc, but poor writing might make him a one-season addition.

Tobi Bakare Returns as JP Hooper

• A Beloved Comeback: Tobi Bakare, who played Sergeant JP Hooper from Seasons 4 to 10, returns as a guest star in Season 14’s opening episode, announced via the show’s X account on January 16, 2025. Bakare’s return after a brief Season 13 appearance thrilled fans, with one X user calling it “the best surprise of 2025.” His role ties into a case close to the team’s heart, per Radio Times.

• Why It Matters: JP’s return adds nostalgia but risks overshadowing new characters like Sebastian. His experience as a sergeant contrasts with the rookie’s struggles, offering mentorship potential. However, if overused, it could stall the show’s forward momentum.

• Potential Pitfalls: Guest returns can feel like fan service if not plot-driven. Bakare’s one-off in Season 13 worked because it tied to a specific case, but an extended stay without clear purpose might dilute his impact. Writers must balance nostalgia with fresh stories to keep viewers engaged.

Season 14’s Star-Studded Guest Cast

• Big Names in Episode Two: The second episode, aired February 7, 2025, features Adam James (Wicked), David Avery (Gangs of London), and Simon Lennon (Bridgerton) as suspects in a game show contestant’s murder, per Devon Live. Their high-profile credits draw viewers, but their roles must avoid feeling like stunt casting.

• Other Notable Guests: Across Season 14, guest stars include Michelle Greenidge (Kaos), Patricia Allison (Sex Education), and Charlotte Spencer (Sanditon), announced on X by @deathinparadise. Each brings unique flair, like Allison’s wellness guru in episode one, whose death via allergic reaction puzzled Mervin. These stars enhance the show’s appeal but must fit the murder-mystery format.

• Risks of Over-Reliance: Guest stars are a Death in Paradise staple, but too many big names can overshadow the core cast. If their roles lack depth, it feels like a ratings grab, as seen in weaker episodes criticized on X for “flashy cameos over substance.” Writers must ensure guests serve the plot, not just draw headlines.

Will Don Warrington Return for Season 15?

• Selwyn Patterson’s Uncertain Future: Don Warrington’s Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, a mainstay since 2011, faced a dramatic exit in Season 14’s finale on March 28, 2025. After his job was phased out and replaced by Sterling Fox (Trieve Blackwood-Cambridge), Selwyn declined to return, opting to visit his daughter Andrina, per Radio Times. Fans on X are vocal, with one saying, “Selwyn’s the heart of the show—bring him back!”

• Why It Matters: Selwyn’s departure risks losing the show’s emotional core. His 50-year service milestone in Season 13’s 100th episode highlighted his importance. A freelance return, as speculated by Tobi Bakare, could work, but a permanent exit might alienate long-time viewers.

• Mistakes to Avoid: If Warrington returns, his role must evolve—sticking to the same “stern commissioner” trope could feel stale. Ignoring fan demand for his return, as seen in X posts, could hurt ratings, given the show’s 8.14 million average viewers in 2020.

Season 15 Predictions: New and Returning Faces

• Confirmed Returns: Élizabeth Bourgine (Catherine Bordey), Shantol Jackson (Naomi Thomas), Ginny Holder (Darlene Curtis), and Shaquille Ali-Yebuah (Sebastian Rose) are filming Season 15 in Guadeloupe, per Bourgine’s April 2025 Instagram post. Don Gilet’s return is likely, given his comments about filming, though not officially confirmed.

• Potential Newcomers: No new regulars are confirmed, but X fans speculate a female detective could join, balancing Mervin’s arc. The show’s history of rotating DIs suggests a fresh face might appear if Gilet exits early. Guest stars will likely include UK and Caribbean talent, continuing the show’s diverse casting.

• What’s at Stake: Season 15, set for early 2026, must maintain the show’s formula—weekly murders, tropical charm—while addressing fan calls for deeper character arcs. Failing to integrate new characters thoughtfully, as seen with rushed exits like Danny John-Jules’ Dwayne Myers in the 2024 special, could disrupt the show’s 14-year success.

FAQs

Who is the new lead detective in Death in Paradise 2025?

Don Gilet plays DI Mervin Wilson, introduced in the 2024 Christmas special. A Londoner seeking his birth mother, he’s the first Black lead DI, addressing diversity critiques. His gritty style shakes up Saint Marie, but fans on X worry he may not stay long-term.

Which guest stars are in Season 14’s first episodes?

Episode one (January 31, 2025) features Tobi Bakare as JP Hooper, Patricia Allison, and David Mumeni. Episode two includes Adam James, David Avery, and Simon Lennon. Other guests like Michelle Greenidge and Charlotte Spencer appear later, per Radio Times, adding star power to the mysteries.

Is Don Warrington leaving Death in Paradise?

Don Warrington’s Selwyn Patterson declined his commissioner role in Season 14’s finale, aired March 28, 2025. His return for Season 15 is unconfirmed, but fans on X hope for a freelance role. His exit could shift the show’s dynamic if not handled carefully.

Who’s confirmed for Season 15 of Death in Paradise?

Élizabeth Bourgine, Shantol Jackson, Ginny Holder, and Shaquille Ali-Yebuah are confirmed for Season 15, filming in Guadeloupe as of April 2025. Don Gilet is likely to return as Mervin Wilson, though not officially announced. Expect new guest stars, per Radio Times.

Why do guest stars matter in Death in Paradise?

Guest stars like Adam James and Patricia Allison bring fresh faces to weekly murders, boosting ratings. However, X fans note that poorly written guest roles can feel like gimmicks. Strong guest performances, like Tobi Bakare’s return, enhance the show’s escapist appeal without overshadowing the core cast.

Summary

Death in Paradise in 2025 is packed with fresh talent and familiar faces. Don Gilet’s DI Mervin Wilson leads Season 14, joined by rookie Shaquille Ali-Yebuah as Sebastian Rose and guest stars like Tobi Bakare, Patricia Allison, and Adam James. With Don Warrington’s Selwyn Patterson potentially exiting, fans on X are anxious about the show’s future, but Élizabeth Bourgine, Shantol Jackson, and others are confirmed for Season 15, filming now in Guadeloupe. The show must balance its cozy formula with diverse, meaningful casting to keep its 8.14 million viewers hooked. Share your thoughts on the new cast below!