Fans of the hit BBC drama Death in Paradise are in for a festive treat, as star Don Gilet has exclusively teased a major character comeback in the show's upcoming Christmas special.
Exclusive Tease from Saint Marie
In a conversation with Reach PLC and other outlets, Gilet, who plays Detective Mervin Wilson, offered a tantalising glimpse into the festive episode airing on Sunday night on BBC One at 8.30pm. While careful not to give too much away, he strongly hinted that a familiar face would be making a welcome return.
"It's a very interesting thing to think about that one of the characters, who is the beating heart of this whole thing that has been there from the beginning," Gilet mused. He reflected on the potential absence of this character and the void it would leave, particularly for his own character, Mervin. "Because I suppose, in terms of family, they are the closest thing, and then to think, Mervin is back to feeling like an orphan again."
Crossover Clues and Fan Theories
This revelation follows a direct narrative clue in the Beyond Paradise Christmas special that aired last weekend. In a surprise cameo, Don Warrington reprised his role as Commissioner Selwyn Pattison, attending the wedding of Humphrey Goodman and Martha Lloyd.
The episode concluded with Selwyn receiving a phone call from Mervin Wilson, strongly hinting that the Commissioner will feature in the Death in Paradise festive instalment. This has sent the show's dedicated fanbase into a frenzy of speculation and excitement.
On a popular Facebook fan page, viewers shared their joy. One fan wrote, "What a surprise ending and lead into DIP Christmas special," while another added, "Loved the crossover with Selwyn involved." A third simply stated, "Should be interesting, looking forward to it."
A Baffling Christmas Case
The episode's official synopsis promises a classic Death in Paradise mystery with a festive twist. It reads: "The office Christmas party of a lifetime takes a dark turn when four co-workers wake up to find a stranger dead in the pool of their Caribbean villa."
DI Mervin Wilson and his team quickly identify the murder weapon, but are left utterly perplexed when they discover it was locked in a drawer thousands of miles away in Swindon at the time of the killing. Stranded in Saint Marie, the team must call on a familiar face for help to crack the case.
Meanwhile, Mervin is personally distracted, anxiously awaiting news from his newly discovered brother, which prevents him from fully embracing the island's Christmas spirit. The episode will see if he can resolve his family matters in time for the festivities.
Don Gilet also expressed his enthusiasm for the UK-based crossover elements, telling the Express, "I think it's great to see what the UK looks like at the very same time as Mervin is solving crimes in the beautiful sunshine."
