From Albert Square to Saint Marie, via Holby A&E! Former EastEnders baddie Don Gilet is announced as the new lead in Death In Paradise after Ralf Little left his post as DI Parker
Don Gilet is about to put on his detective hat as he has been announced as the new lead in crime drama Death In Paradise.
The actor, 57, will make his debut in a feature-length Christmas special later this year, before a brand new series in 2025.
Don plays Detective Mervin WiIson, who arrives on the idyllic island of Saint Marie from London and is none too happy with his new surroundings.
The star, who is also known for her appearances in EastEnders and Sherwood, has started filming in Guadeloupe alongside Death in Paradise regulars Don Warrington, Shantol Jackson, Ginny Holder, Élizabeth Bourgine and Danny John-Jules.
Don said: “To be offered the new lead role in Death in Paradise feels like a much-loved and incredibly precious gem has been placed in my hands.
Don Gilet is about to put on his detective hat as he has been announced as the new lead in crime drama Death In Paradise
It comes after former show lead Ralf Little, 44, left starring in Death In Paradise after five years with a final appearance in March’s series 13 finale
‘This is a big show, with a big heart and the love for it is constantly growing. My intention is to never lose sight of that and remain grateful, humble and committed.
‘Even during those test moments when every nerve screams at me to run off the set and dive into the sea, the pool or an ice-cold beer – whichever is closest at the moment!’
Tim Key, executive producer of Red Planet Pictures, added: “Don is a great actor and we are thrilled to have him join us as the show enters an exciting new era.
“We have big plans for the new series and beyond, and I can’t wait for audiences to meet Mervin and see what we have in store.”
It comes after former show leader Ralf Little, 44, left starring in Death In Paradise after five years with a final appearance in March’s series 13 finale.
In a video posted to his Instagram after the show, Ralf posted a lengthy message to his fans saying it was an ‘absolute privilege’ to play DI Neville Parker.
He said, ‘So there you have it! The secret is out! My time on Saint Marie has come to an end. But what an ending!
‘New adventures await Marcel and he got to sail into the sunset with his best friend, and you know, who knows what will happen to them next! I just want to say, thank you so much to everyone who watched and supported the show.
Don said: “To be offered the new lead role in Death in Paradise feels like a much-loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands.”
The actor will make his debut in a feature-length Christmas special later this year, before a brand new series in 2025.
‘When I arrived here, four and a half years ago, I knew I had big shoes to fill. It was a huge responsibility to take part in a series that was loved by millions of people, including myself.
‘I had no idea whether viewers would accept my interpretation of Neville’s character, or me, so it was a relief that the response was overwhelming.
“It has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to bring Neville Parker to all of you and share his truly profound journey with you. I can’t thank you all enough for your support over the last four and a half years, as Neville heads off to new challenges and adventures and I head off to new challenges and adventures.”
He continued: “When I look back on the time I spent on Death In Paradise, the way everyone took Marcel into their hearts, it was truly one of the most magical and profound experiences of my entire life. If it weren’t for all of you, I never would have had to do it. So thank you very much!
In a video posted to his Instagram after the show, Ralf posted a lengthy message to his fans saying it was an ‘absolute privilege’ to play DI Neville Parker.
‘What now with the show? Well, I couldn’t even tell you if I knew, but I don’t! Don’t know! But what I do know is that the team that makes it, the producers, the writers, directors, the entire crew, the guest cast and of course my absolutely amazing co-stars.
‘They know what they are doing and the future is in good hands! So I’m going to watch series 14 with you with the same enthusiasm as all of you. I can’t wait to see what happens next!’
The actor recently insisted he had no idea who would be his successor.
In a recent Q&A on Instagram, he revealed, “I honestly have no idea and they didn’t tell me, maybe they had no idea yet.
‘Just like you, I am also eagerly waiting to see who will be next. No idea. But we’ll see what happens.’