Death in Paradise Season 15 Cast: Every Character, New and Returning

Introduction

If you’re a fan of the long-running BBC crime drama Death in Paradise, you’ll be glad season 15 is here. The show returns to the sunny, fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie with a mix of old heroes and fresh faces. It matters because fans love seeing the team of detectives solve quirky murders in paradise — and the cast changes keep things exciting. Season 15 premiered on 30 January 2026 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. (Tom's Guide)

This season brings back key characters like DI Mervin Wilson and DS Naomi Thomas, while saying goodbye to fan favourite Darlene Curtis (briefly seen last in the Christmas special). (Woman & Home) Plus, new cast additions and guest stars add layers to the story. There’s mystery, emotion, and familiar island charm again. Let’s walk through every character you’ll see — returning and new — in this season’s line-up.

Main Returning Cast

Season 15 keeps much of the core team you know. These characters drive the mystery and the heart of the show:

DI Mervin Wilson — Don Gilet

Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson leads the police force in Saint Marie. He’s smart, but often socially awkward. After moving to the island in the 2024 Christmas special, he chose to stay. Mervin also explores a personal storyline this season involving his half-brother Solomon. (Radio Times)

DS Naomi Thomas — Shantol Jackson

Detective Sergeant Naomi Thomas is Mervin’s key partner. She’s confident and calm under pressure. Over the years on Death in Paradise, she’s grown from eager new recruit to a steady guiding force in the station. (Radio Times)

Officer Sebastian Rose — Shaquille Ali-Yebuah

Sebastian brings youthful energy to the team. He’s learning on the job but getting sharper each episode. His enthusiasm and mistakes make him both funny and endearing. (Radio Times)

Catherine Bordey — Élizabeth Bourgine

Catherine isn’t a cop, but she’s essential. As the Mayor of Saint Marie and owner of the local bar, she knows everyone and offers wisdom one minute and sass the next. (Radio Times)

Commissioner Selwyn Patterson — Don Warrington

Commissioner Patterson has been part of the show since early seasons and makes appearances this season, though his role shifted in recent series. (Radio Times)

New Characters and Cast Additions

Season 15 brings in fresh blood and intriguing new personalities:

Sergeant Mattie Fletcher — Catherine Garton

A major new addition! Sergeant Mattie Fletcher joins the Saint Marie police team this season. She’s described as tenacious and determined — a sergeant who is confident and ready to face the island’s baffling mysteries. Her dynamic with Mervin and the rest of the team adds fresh energy. (Evrimagaci)

Solomon Clarke — Daniel Ward

Solomon is Mervin’s newly discovered half-brother. Their relationship becomes a personal thread this season, adding emotional depth to the crime plot. (Radio Times)

Guest Stars to Watch

Season 15 is packed with familiar faces from other British shows — expect a mix of drama, comedy, and surprise turns:

• Siobhan Finneran (Happy Valley)

• Steffan Rhodri (Gavin & Stacey)

• Hermione Norris (Spooks, Cold Feet)

• Sarah Hadland (Miranda)

• Scarlett Alice Johnson (EastEnders)

• Sean Delaney (Killing Eve)

• Gary Wilmot

• Julian Rhind-Tutt
  These guest stars appear in various roles across the season, helping shape each case’s plot. (aol.co.uk)

🧠 Why guest casting matters: Big names often bring diverse characters — suspects, victims, or unexpected allies — that shake up the usual rhythm and keep fans guessing.

Characters Leaving and Fan Reactions

Goodbye (for now) — Darlene Curtis

Fan-favourite Officer Darlene Curtis, played by Ginny Holder, won’t be in the main cast this season. Her last appearance was in the 2025 Christmas special, where she was shown briefly via video call. (tvguide.co.uk)

Fans have shared sadness and best wishes online, calling her character “a joy” and hoping she’ll return someday. Many say her absence will be felt around the station. (tvguide.co.uk)

How the Cast Shapes the Story

The mix of returning heroes and fresh faces helps the show strike a balance between comfort and surprise:

1. Familiar faces like Mervin and Naomi give continuity.

2. New dynamics, like Mattie’s energy, create fresh conflict and humour.

3. Guest stars keep each episode unpredictable.

4. Character arcs such as familial relationships deepen the storytelling.

This blend is part of why Death in Paradise still draws viewers and sparks conversation online. Fans are discussing theories and favourite characters constantly on platforms like Reddit and Threads. Many hope to see more character development and surprising returns. (Reddit)

FAQs

Q: Who are the main cast members in Death in Paradise season 15?
A: The core team includes DI Mervin Wilson, DS Naomi Thomas, Officer Sebastian Rose, Catherine Bordey, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, and new sergeant Mattie Fletcher. (Radio Times)

Q: Is Darlene Curtis in season 15?
A: Officer Darlene Curtis (Ginny Holder) briefly appeared in the Christmas special but is not part of the main season 15 cast. (tvguide.co.uk)

Q: When did season 15 premiere?
A: Death in Paradise season 15 premiered on 30 January 2026 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK. (Tom's Guide)

Q: Are there guest stars this season?
A: Yes — actors like Siobhan Finneran, Steffan Rhodri, and Sarah Hadland appear in guest roles across the episodes. (aol.co.uk)

Q: Can I watch Death in Paradise outside the UK?
A: After streaming on BBC iPlayer in the UK, international viewers can usually watch via BritBox in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia (release dates may vary). (Tom's Guide)

Conclusion

Season 15 of Death in Paradise mixes beloved characters with exciting newcomers, keeping the show fresh and engaging. The returning core team brings continuity, while Sergeant Mattie Fletcher and guest stars deepen the drama and mystery. Fans might miss Darlene, but there’s still plenty to love — from Mervin’s personal journey to surprising guest appearances.

Whether you watch for the clever crime plots or the island banter, this season’s cast ensures Death in Paradise stays fun, unpredictable, and emotionally driven. Don’t miss it — and join the conversation online about your favourite character moments! Type YES if you’re watching!