newcomer DI Mervin Wilson (played by Don Gilet) seems poised for a challenging path as he integrates into the Saint Marie police force on the fan-favourite
At the end of last year, viewers witnessed Don stepping into shoes, much to the dislike of island residents—a sentiment confirmed by actress Shantol Jackson who plays DS Naomi Thomas.
Discussing her character’s first impressions, Shantol didn’t mince her words. When asked what DS Naomi first thought of the newcomer, she replied: “Rude, insensitive and impatient! During the Christmas special, Naomi and Darlene want Mervin to leave but they understand that the team need a Detective Inspector.”
She went on to highlight their disdain for his thoughts about the island, stating: “He complains about the island a lot and is offensive, and that doesn’t sit well with her or Darlene! She makes these feelings known to him, but she does realise that he is very capable and intuitive.”
Shantol explained her character isn’t thrilled about the newcomer (Image: BBC)
Despite ruffling feathers among the locals, audiences seemed amused by his straightforward manner.
One viewer said: “Well, I like the new detective. Yes, he’s rude, but he’s also interesting.”
Another fan on Twitter shared their thoughts adding: “I really like Mervin, he’s exactly the kind of character I hoped they’d get, to change up the show again. A Luther type to be mean and moody but gets his heart melted by the Island.”
Someone else commented: “Blunt and rude but why do I lowkey love it #DeathInParadise,” while someone else noted: “I’m loving Mervin’s bluntness, but I don’t think his new colleagues are.”
Viewers were quick to take to Twitter to share their thoughts on the new DI (Image: (Image: BBC))
As new detective Mervin makes waves in Death in Paradise, Shantol’s character may not gel with him, but off-screen, the influx of warmth for newcomer actor Don Gilet was clear, reports
Addressing the unique challenges of the location where the series is filmed, Shantol touched on its French-speaking environment and the significance of embracing those who join the team.
The actress added: “We’re away from friends and family for half the year. And on top of that, it’s a French island, so if you’re not fluent in French, it’s very hard to make friends, or even develop any kind of relationships outside of the people you work with.
Don Gilet made his debut during the Death in Paradise Christmas special (Image: BBC)
“We’ve been there and we were very much like, ‘Ok, we have to ensure that we take care of him’, even for the first couple of months, ease him in, because we know how hard it can be, how lonely it can be.”
With open arms, the team welcomed Don Gilet, whose transition, according to Shantol, was easy. She added: “We were happy to have him and happy to welcome him. And very soon, he just kind of relaxed and eased into it.”
Death in Paradise season 14 arrives on One and iPlayer at 9pm on Friday 31st January 2025