An original star of the hit BBC drama Death in Paradise has issued a stark warning about the show's future, suggesting its quality would suffer if a certain fan-favourite actor ever departed.
A Show Built on Its Originals
Kris Marshall, who played Detective Inspector Humphrey Goodman on the Caribbean-set series from 2014 to 2017, recently reunited with his former co-star Don Warrington. Warrington has portrayed Commissioner Selwyn Patterson since the show's debut in 2011. The reunion occurred in the Beyond Paradise Christmas special, where Marshall's Humphrey tied the knot with Martha Lloyd, played by Sally Bretton.
Reflecting on the show's enduring success despite numerous cast changes, Marshall highlighted the importance of its longest-serving actors. Speaking to RadioTimes, he stated: "He's one of only two people left on the show who are true originals - Élizabeth Bourgine, who plays Catherine, and Don." He added, "And although it's had many cast changes over the years, it's always survived."
The 'Linchpins' of Saint Marie
Marshall was unequivocal about the potential impact of Warrington's exit. "However, those are your bastions, those are your true linchpins," he explained. "So I think it would survive [if Don were to leave], but would it be any good? Nah!"
This concern resonates with fans who were left worried when Commissioner Selwyn appeared to leave the fictional island of Saint Marie in the series finale broadcast in March 2025. His character decided to depart to visit his daughter, Andrina, played by Genesis Lynea.
Clues Point to a Festive Return
However, hope for Selwyn's swift return was rekindled during his Beyond Paradise cameo. Viewers saw him receive a phone call while in Shipton Abbott, informing him that a detective from Saint Marie required his assistance in the UK. This has sparked widespread speculation that this scene is laying the groundwork for his involvement in the upcoming Death in Paradise Christmas Special.
Fans were thrilled by the surprise appearance, flooding social media with their excitement. One viewer speculated on the crossover potential, writing: "After the phone call he got, I wonder if Selwyn being in the UK will have a crossover with the Death In Paradise Christmas special next Sunday?" Another praised the move, posting: "Nice touch bringing Selwyn in for the wedding... Hope he becomes a regular in the series."
With the festive special on the horizon, all eyes will be on whether Commissioner Selwyn Patterson makes his way back to Saint Marie, ensuring the 'linchpin' remains firmly in place for the beloved BBC series.
