Death in Paradise Season 15 Faces Filming Hurdles and Cast Shake-Up
LONDON, 31 January 2026 – As filming for the fifteenth season of the BBC’s beloved Caribbean detective drama continues in Guadeloupe, the production has navigated a series of off-screen dramas, from cast departures to alarming on-set incidents. The new series promises fresh dynamics with a reshuffled team at the Honoré Police station, but the path to paradise has been anything but smooth.
A Cast in Transition
The main ensemble has seen significant changes ahead of Season 15. Don Warrington returns as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson following a spell away, while Don Gilet continues in his role as Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson, a character who debuted in the 2024 Christmas special. He is joined by Shantol Jackson as DS Naomi Thomas and Élizabeth Bourgine as Catherine Bordey. However, the series bids farewell to fan-favourite Ginny Holder, who played Darlene Curtis. Holder broke her silence on the emotional exit via social media just days after the news was announced. New faces joining the fray include Sergeant Mattie Fletcher and Solomon, Mervin’s half-brother, introductions set to create new tension within the team.
On-Set Incidents and Tropical Perils
Filming on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe – which stands in for the fictional Saint Marie – has not been without its hazards. Actor Shaquille Ali-Yebuah shared on BBC Morning Live that he was bitten by a poisonous centipede during production, an experience he described by saying “my legacy was nearly over”. Other cast members have recounted similar encounters with the island’s “crawly critters”, with one star admitting the environment could feel “like a horror film” at times. These incidents underscore the challenges of shooting in a tropical location where temperatures can average around 32°C.
Key Facts & Future Prospects
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Lead Detective | DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet) |
| Notable Departure | Ginny Holder (Darlene Curtis) |
| New Characters | Sergeant Mattie Fletcher & Solomon |
| Filming Location | Guadeloupe, French Caribbean |
| Recent On-Set Incident | Shaquille Ali-Yebuah bitten by poisonous centipede |
| DI Tenure | Don Gilet hints about future, stating “that’s when I’ll leave” |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new lead detective in Death in Paradise?
Don Gilet plays Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson, who took over as the lead detective following the departure of Ralf Little’s DI Neville Parker. Gilet’s character was introduced in the 2024 Christmas special.
Where is Death in Paradise filmed?
The series is filmed on location in Guadeloupe, a French archipelago in the Lesser Antilles. Its six islands serve as the stand-in for the fictional paradise of Saint Marie.
Has anyone left the cast for Season 15?
Yes, actress Ginny Holder, who played bar owner Darlene Curtis, has confirmed her exit from the series. She addressed her departure emotionally on Instagram following the announcement.
Are there any new characters joining Season 15?
Yes, Season 15 will introduce Sergeant Mattie Fletcher and a character named Solomon, who is revealed to be DI Mervin Wilson’s half-brother, promising to add fresh dynamics to the team.