Don Warrington, the esteemed actor from the beloved BBC series Death in Paradise, has directly addressed and clarified a widespread misconception regarding his character's recent return to the show. Warrington, who portrays Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, firmly stated that his comeback was driven solely by narrative developments, not by any reaction to audience discontent over his initial departure.
Setting the Record Straight on Selwyn Patterson's Exit and Return
In 2024, it was officially announced that Commissioner Selwyn Patterson would be leaving the cosy detective drama, with the storyline citing a pressing family crisis that required his attention far from the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie. This development prompted a notable backlash from dedicated viewers who had grown fond of the character over the years.
However, when the series made its anticipated return to BBC screens last month, fans were surprised to see Selwyn back in action. This led to widespread speculation that the writers had orchestrated his return specifically in response to the vocal fan outcry. Warrington has now categorically dismissed this theory.
"That Was Just the Storyline, Nothing More"
In a recent interview with The i newspaper, the 74-year-old actor provided rare insight into the production's creative decisions. "That was just the storyline, nothing more," Warrington emphasised, clarifying the situation. He elaborated further, explaining that the producers conceived a plot where Selwyn would face a personal crisis, resolve it, and subsequently return to his duties. "There was no Machiavellian intent," he assured, dispelling any notions of a calculated, audience-pleasing reversal.
Despite refuting the backlash theory, Warrington expressed genuine appreciation for the passionate fan response. "It was certainly very nice to know that my character had penetrated into people's consciousness to that extent, and that they liked him," he shared warmly. "It is rather nice to be liked." This sentiment highlights the positive connection between the actor and the show's loyal audience.
Praising Death in Paradise's Progressive Casting and Cultural Richness
Warrington also took the opportunity to commend Death in Paradise for its significant strides in representation. The series currently stars Don Gilet as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson, marking the fifth lead actor since the show's premiere in 2011, following predecessors Ben Miller, Ardal O'Hanlon, Kris Marshall, and Ralf Little.
In a conversation with Radio Times, Warrington praised the programme for featuring two Black leads, stating it has "taken giant steps in giving a different picture of the world." He reflected on the evolving television landscape, noting, "Everyone realised the world had changed so we had to change with it. And it has given the series a richness culturally."
Warrington underscored the importance of this representation, explaining, "What we are trying to do here is present people of colour in a way that is unclichéd – they are simply people getting on with the job and in that sense their colour is irrelevant." This approach aims to normalise diverse casting within mainstream television narratives.
What Lies Ahead in the New Series
The ongoing series promises to deliver engaging new developments for its central characters. Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson will continue navigating his adjustment to life on Saint Marie while also striving to reconnect with his recently discovered half-brother Solomon, portrayed by television newcomer Daniel Ward.
Simultaneously, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson will be compelled to confront the consequences of his recent absence. His storyline will focus on efforts to regain the trust and confidence of the island community he serves, adding a layer of personal and professional challenge to his return.
This clarification from Don Warrington not only resolves fan speculation but also reinforces the creative integrity behind Death in Paradise's storytelling. The show continues to blend intriguing mysteries with progressive character development, maintaining its appeal as a staple of British television drama.
