Death in Paradise star Don Warrington has revealed his genuine astonishment at the passionate public response following swirling rumours that his long-standing character, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, might be departing the beloved BBC drama.
A Surprising Fan Reaction
The actor, who has portrayed the esteemed Commissioner since the show's very first series, admitted he was completely taken aback by the level of concern and outcry from the programme's dedicated audience. Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Warrington confessed the strength of the reaction was entirely unexpected.
"Well, it came as a shock to me, I have to say," Warrington told Radio Times. "I thought it would just pass by under the radar and we'd carry on. But, apparently, there has been an outcry. It's flattering and I would be dishonest if I said it wasn't."
Characters Embedded in Public Consciousness
Warrington went on to express his surprise at realising just how deeply the characters from Death in Paradise have embedded themselves into the public's consciousness. The drama, set on the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie, follows Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson, played by Don Gilet, and his team as they unravel local murders and mysteries.
The speculation about Commissioner Patterson's exit sent significant shockwaves through the show's loyal fanbase, highlighting the character's importance to the series' fabric and its viewers.
The Commissioner's Journey and a Hinted Return
For devoted viewers, the Commissioner's storyline took a dramatic turn at the conclusion of series 14. After being dismissed from his position, Selwyn Patterson chose to leave Saint Marie, despite an offer of reinstatement, opting instead to reunite with his daughter in the UK.
However, a tantalising development has since emerged, offering hope for the character's comeback. On New Year's Eve, the official Death in Paradise Instagram page shared a compelling post hinting at Patterson's potential return ahead of the new series launching this month.
A Phone Call That Changes Everything
The post featured a clip from the show's spin-off, Beyond Paradise. In the scene, Commissioner Patterson is shown making a pivotal phone call, inquiring about the status of his former role.
"Chief Commissioner, it is Selwyn Patterson," he says in the clip. "Apologies for calling you during the holidays. But I wanted to know if you have found my replacement as yet?"
After a moment listening to the response, he continues, "I see... I have been doing some thinking, and I wondered if there was any chance of my returning to the role if it's still vacant?"
The Instagram caption accompanying the clip read: "So that's something to look forward to in the new year!" This strong hint has been warmly received by fans eagerly awaiting the drama's return.
Looking Ahead to the New Series
This development seemingly confirms that Commissioner Selwyn Patterson's story on Saint Marie is far from over. The public's vocal reaction to the mere speculation of his departure underscores the character's enduring popularity and integral role within the series.
Death in Paradise is scheduled to return to BBC One on January 30, with fans now keenly anticipating the official confirmation of the Commissioner's fate and his potential reinstatement on the island.
