As the beloved BBC drama Death in Paradise prepares to return for a festive special, fans are not only eager for the mystery but also curious about the life of one of its longest-serving stars, Don Warrington.
A Festive Mystery Awaits
The Death in Paradise Christmas Special is scheduled to bring holiday cheer and intrigue to BBC One on December 28 at 8.30pm. The 90-minute episode promises a classic whodunit with a seasonal twist. According to the BBC, the story begins as the ultimate office party on the island of Saint Marie, which takes a dark turn when four co-workers wake up to find a stranger shot dead in their villa's pool.
The plot thickens as DI Mervin Wilson and his team identify the murder weapon, only to be left completely baffled. Their investigation reveals the weapon was locked in a drawer thousands of miles away at the precise moment of the shooting, setting up a seemingly impossible crime.
Don Warrington: The Man Behind the Commissioner
For 14 years, Don Warrington captivated audiences as the stalwart Commissioner Selwyn Patterson. His departure from the main series in March 2025 was a poignant moment for viewers, following his character's decision to leave Saint Marie after losing his role, even declining an offer to reclaim it.
However, speculation about a potential return has been fuelled by his recent appearance in the Christmas special of the spin-off show, Beyond Paradise. This has left fans hopeful they may see more of the beloved commissioner in the future.
A Private and Happy Marriage
Away from the cameras, Don Warrington leads a fulfilling private life. He has been happily married to actress Mary Maddocks for many years. The couple, who prefer to keep their personal affairs out of the spotlight, have never publicly disclosed their wedding date.
Mary Maddocks is an accomplished actress in her own right, with roles in iconic British productions including Coronation Street, Doctor Who, and Midsomer Murders. She has also directed numerous theatrical productions and performed in the West End run of The Rocky Horror Show.
Together, Don and Mary are parents to two sons, Jacob and Archie, who are both forging careers in the entertainment industry. Archie, a playwright and comedian, has worked on projects like the 2023 thriller Gassed Up and the TV series Intergalactic.
In a past tribute, Archie highlighted the influence of his parents, stating: "Both my parents are actors... The main thing I get from both of them is they understand the art of performance and the need to perform." This creative environment has clearly nurtured the next generation, while Don and Mary continue to enjoy a strong and enduring marriage away from the public eye.
